Bioactive glasses and glass-ceramics, which include both glass and ceramic materials, are widely used in the field of medicine due to their excellent biocompatibility with human tissues. These materials have been developed to possess magnetic properties, specifically for the purpose of enhancing medical applications, particularly in cancer treatment through a technique called Hyperthermia. Dr. Vilaiwan Leenanukul, has conducted research to control the size of iron oxide particles in bioactive glass-ceramics. This research aims to achieve the most effective properties for Hyperthermia applications.
Hyperthermia involves using localized heat to destroy cancer cells. By embedding iron oxide particles in specific areas of cancerous tissue and applying an alternating magnetic field, these particles generate heat, which selectively targets and destroys cancer cells while leaving healthy tissues unharmed. Dr. Leenanukul’s research focuses on optimizing the bioactive glass-ceramics’ properties for this purpose, particularly in bone grafts, which can be used to treat cancer. The research involves controlling the crystallization temperature and using heat treatment processes to create nanoscale iron oxide particles within the glass-ceramic matrix.
Furthermore, the bioactive glass-ceramics developed in this research have demonstrated compatibility with simulated body fluids and have shown the potential for generating heat under safe magnetic field conditions. The research emphasizes the importance of precise control over factors like temperature and crystallization during the production of these materials, as such control significantly impacts their effectiveness in medical applications.
Dr. Leenanukul has expressed hope that these innovative bioactive glass-ceramics, incorporating nanoscale ferromagnetic particles, could revolutionize cancer treatment by offering a low-cost, easily manufacturable solution for Hyperthermia therapy. This innovation could potentially lead to significant advances in cancer treatment, ultimately benefiting patients and advancing the field of medical science. For further inquiries, Dr. Vilaiwan Leenanukul can be contacted at 08 9266 2485.