Nanoparticle Tracking Analyzer (NTA) for the Advancement of Biomedical, Environmental, and Materials Research

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Nanoparticles have dimensions of less than 100 nm, and often possess unique physical, electronic, or optical properties at this size scale. These materials have applications in the development of new diagnostic tools and therapeutics for health care, and in the development of optoelectronic devices. Nanoparticles can also serve as probes to help better understand fundamental biological processes related to diseases and their treatment, and have emerging and important roles in the environment. We have requested support from NSERC to obtain a nanoparticle tracking analyzer system. This instrument will enable the detailed characterization of nanoparticle samples with far better resolution of heterogeneity than the current standard technology, and is much more quantitative and compatible with fluorescent nanoparticles. These features are all critical for the research programs that the instrument will support. This research spans several areas, including biomedical, environmental, and materials science. Examples of research topics that will be addressed with the requested instrument include smartphone-based point-of-care diagnostics, fluorescent probes for imaging cellular processes related to disease pathology, elucidation of the mechanism of action of antibiotic peptides, nanoparticle-mediated delivery of drugs and contrast agents for oncology imaging, treatment of blood disorders, elucidation of how natural atmospheric nanoparticles initiate ice nucleation and affect global climate, and development of more efficient lighting and memory storage materials. We estimate that at least 150 research trainees will learn how to operate this instrument over the next five years, and enter the job market with cutting-edge skills that are in demand by both local and international companies operating in nanotechnology and materials science/polymer sectors. The research carried out by these trainees under our supervision will help position Canada as a global leader in nanotechnology and, most importantly, its application to solving problems in health, the environment, and material science. Outcomes will include a better understanding of the mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of disease, of factors affecting climate change, and development of new devices and technologies--all of which will have economic benefit for Canada.