Dynamic Light Scattering
Using Zeta Potential to Investigate the Self-Assembly of Tooth Enamel
Researchers at the UCSF School of Dentistry have harnessed the dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential measuring capabilities of the Zetasizer Nano, from Malvern Instruments, to characterise the interaction between amelogenin protein and the mineral component hydroxyapatite.
Dynamic light scattering (DLS) delivers data on both size and molecular weight by exploiting the link between hydrodynamic particle size and diffusion rate, calculated from measurements of time-dependent fluctuations of coherent light scattered by the dispersed particles. Since proteins have a very consistent composition and tend to fold into tight structures, the hydrodynamic size relates predictably to molecular weight, and this relationship can be predicted with the Zetasizer Nano.
The Benefits of the Zetasizer
In order to be effective, topical oil-based products, or ‘semisolid’ drugs, need to be able to penetrate the skin in a manner that allows them to be delivered to the body’s circulation. Whether it’s for beauty, medicine or any other purpose, the challenge of delivering semisolids into the body is crucial to the success of any given semisolid product. Measuring the size of the particles within these semisolids is the key to ensuring the product is delivered in the most effective manner and. Various methods of particle size measurement or analysis are used to measure these materials including laser diffraction and dynamic light scattering. Further to this, by using an instrument called the Zetasizer, scientists can also understand the variable effects of pH and temperature on the delivery system.
Take, for example, the Lipodisq delivery system, which copies the way naturally-occurring HDLs [high-density lipoproteins] bind cholesterol in the body. The nanoparticles of the Lipodisq system are able to find a way through the skin while still carrying the pharmaceutical agents with them to be delivered into the bloodstream – but they need to be exactly the right size. In fact, the suitable size range is very small; if the nanoparticles are larger than 50nm (nanometres) in size, they will not be able to breach the outer layer of the skin. If they’re less than 5-10nm, they will be too unstable to properly transport the required ingredients. Therefore, these nanoparticles must fall somewhere between 10nm and 50nm in order to be effective.
What is Nanotechnology?
Although the range of scientific endeavours that involves the use or study of nanotechnology gets bigger every year, it is difficult to find a definition which covers every aspect. In simple terms the prefix nano indicates something with extremely small dimensions and this gives us an insight into what nanotechnology is really all about. A nanoparticle size analyser using Dynamic Light Scattering technology has already been developed which can measure particles as small as <1 nm to 6 μm.
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5 Fascinating Careers in Industrial Science
Careers in industrial science continue to expand with positions opening up in both government and private institutions, especially in the area of research and manufacturing. Graduates can choose from a range of careers in agricultural and biological sciences, the information and technology sector, food and pharmaceutical companies, as well as mining and mineral exploration.
With the unparalleled expansion of scientific knowledge, industrial scientists have the opportunity of working at the leading edge of scientific developments no matter whether they have a leaning towards biology, chemistry or physics.
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What’s Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is a field of science that uses living organisms and bimolecular processes to make useful products. Applications span medicine, agriculture, food, energy and the environment.
Biotechnology draws on many specialist sciences such as genetics, microbiology, molecular biology, and biochemistry. In many instances it is also dependent on knowledge from outside biology such as chemical engineering.
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