Description Developing synthetic microcapsule capable of traveling to specific parts of the body and delivering chemical substances, like medications, is an exciting application of nanotechnology. This image, taken by Myers, a scanning electron microscopist at NUANCE, shows a number of these capsules, which are made of a fibrous synthetic shell with a gel or liquid core. This synthetic shell can be easily modified to target different cells in the body and to control the release of the substance it carries. For example, these capsules could be designed to target cancer cells and, once found, release an anti-cancer drug.
Science In Society Northwestern University's Recent Work
About the artist
Science In Society Northwestern University Member Since November 2013 Artist Statement Science in Society is a Northwestern University research center dedicated to science outreach and public engagement.
These images stem from cutting-edge research on campus, winning our annual Scientific Images Contest which goes on display in galleries across Chicago.
Through partnerships with schools and community groups, we train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community centered way. Sales from these images goes to support our education and outreach activities, connecting researchers to the wider community.