Sometimes we
forget that many chemical engineers work in an exciting field know as biotechnology.
Currently, several research groups are concentrating on finding new methods of
delivering drugs to the body. The motivation for such research includes the
following:
1. Syringes can only be used once and then are destroyed
2. Prevention of accidental needle sticks by health care workers
3. Increased precision in drug administration
4. Needles hurt! (especially for children)
Glaxo Wellcome is developing a method of vaccine delivery where the
vaccine is attached to tiny gold particles. The vaccine is delivered by a
needle-free injector developed by Powderject. The new injector uses a concentrated,
painless jet of helium to deliver the vaccine to the bloodstream. Once inside the
body, the vaccine separates from the gold particles and becomes "active".
Researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have
developed a silicon wafer implant that may be used for long term drug administration in
the future. The dime-sized wafers contain 34 reservoirs for storing medication.
Each reservoirs is covered with 0.3 mm membrane of gold or other conducting
material. When one volt of electricity is applied to the cover, it will dissolve via
an electrochemical reaction and release the medication. The chip will be fitted with
a battery and a timer or biosensor to help release the medication at a specified time
interval or according to vital signs.
