"Nanotechnology will revolutionize medical developments in the next 10 to 20 years. New, intelligent targeted medicines and materials will focus treatment where it is needed," says Oula Penate Medina the CEO of CTT Cancer Targeting Technologies Oy.

CTT, which was set up in 2001, develops a method in which cancer medicine is directed inside a nanoparticle to the sick tissue using a peptide that recognizes the target cell.

"At this moment the side effects restrict the use of several medicines. With the CTT method more medicine is carried to the targeted tissue without increasing the total dosage. The medical agent is released only where it is needed," Penate Medina says.

Market of billions

CTT is now in the pre-clinical stage, which means that targeted medicines are not yet on the market. CTT is doing pioneer work in the field, and that means globally as well.

"It has been estimated that the biggest new benefits in medical care will be achieved through improved dosages in the next 10 to 20 years."

Medicine can exploit nanotechnology in many ways in the future. In addition to the targeted distribution of medicine, which will revolutionize the dosage, Penate Medina mentions bio-implants and microsurgery.

In medicine the possible markets for nanotechnology are worth several billions - not to mention the benefit for society and patients in the form of better treatment," Penate Medina emphasizes.

>> www.cancertargeting.com

CTT, which is headed by Oula Penate Medina, focuses on peptide-based tumour targeting methods.