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Phoenix666 [soylentnews.org] writes:

ScienceDaily [sciencedaily.com]:

The triangular, tubular and rectangular shapes are designed and built using a method known as DNA origami. Here, the base pairing properties of DNA's four nucleotides are used to engineer and fabricate DNA origami nanostructures (DONs), which self-assemble and preferentially accumulate in kidneys.
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Experiments described in the new study -- conducted in mice as well as human embryonic kidney cells -- suggest that DONs act as a rapid and active kidney protectant and may also alleviate symptoms of AKI [Acute Kidney Injury]. The distribution of DONs was examined with positron emission tomography (PET). Results showed that the rectangular nanostructures were particularly successful, protecting the kidneys from harm as effectively as the leading drug therapy and alleviating a leading source of AKI known as oxidative stress.

The study is the first to explore the distribution of DNA nanostructures in a living system by means of quantitative imaging with PET and paves the way for a host of new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of AKI as well as other renal diseases.
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The protective and therapeutic effects of the DONs described in the new study are due to the ability of the nanostructures to scavenge reactive oxygen species, thereby insulating vulnerable cells from damage due to oxidative stress.

The technique promises to help prevent renal failure.

Original Submission