Straightening Nana with Nanos:
Medical Polymer Construction Using Nanotechnology

      The human capacity for independence and mobility is one of our greatest gifts. With age, this capacity diminishes and everyday tasks such as driving, preparing meals, walking, or even standing from a seated position can become challenging. Diminished independence and mobility can primarily be attributed to natural deterioration of the spinal column. Over time, the lumbar discs between the vertebrae of the spine begin to disintegrate and compress, resulting in poor posture, loss of stature, poor circulation, and chronic back pain. This process can severely limit the mobility and health of senior citizens.

      The lumbar discs, located between the vertebrae of the spine, allow the spinal cord to move and flex, as well as to absorb any weight or shock applied to the body. The discs contain a jelly-like interior called the nucleus pulposus surrounded by a strong fibrous region called the annulus fibrosus. As humans age, cracks or tears in the annulus fibrosus develop. The inner nucleus can begin to seep through these cracks, causing the discs to compress, changing their volume and shape as well as their biochemical composition. The result is an overall weakening of the disc structure, leading to functional failure of the spinal column and lack of mobility.

      Avenir scientists have engineered medical technology to repair and reconstruct deteriorated lumbar discs through the synthesis of a high molecular weight polyethylene plastic within the body. When deterioration of the annulus fibrosus is diagnosed, a simple ethylene monomer in liquid form is injected at the vertebral site into the damaged regions of the fibrosus. Here, advancements in the engineering discipline of nanotechnology take over, specifically, nanobots.

      Nanobots are carbon-based robots less than 100 nanometers in size that can be injected into the body. Since the late 20th century, scientists have envisioned using these miniature robots to manipulate and move individual atoms. Today, our nanotechnologists have made this vision a reality. They have engineered nanobots to act like a miniature chemical assembly line within the body.

      During fibrosus repair, nanobots manipulate the molecules of injected ethylene monomer, placing them into the damaged regions of the fibrosus. The freshly applied monomer is then irradiated by a tiny gamma emitter embedded within the nanobot. This begins free radical polymerization, joining the monomers together to form high-density polyethylene. The damaged fibrosus is now “patched” with a nonreactive biocompatible compound that is strong and flexible. Doctors can then inject silicone into the nucleus pulposus to return the deflated disc to its original volume and shape. The nanobots, having completed their task, are then processed and eliminated by the body’s lymph system within several days.

      Maintaining a healthy spine is the key to improving the daily life of senior citizens. The nanobots’ ability to synthesize polymers is a major breakthrough in nanoengineering technology. In addition to maintaining a healthy spine, nanobots can repair joints, bones, and cartilage in much the same way. This technology promises Avenir’s citizens the gift of mobility and independence throughout their lives.