Magnetic nanoparticles can work as a contrast agent for MR imaging. By modifying the surface of the nanoparticles, they can circulate in the bloodstream and reach diseased tissue in the body.

During her PhD studies, Line Hansen developed targeted nanoparticles that can be used as contrast agents for MR and optical imaging. The surface of the nanoparticles can be functionalised with small molecules that recognise specific markers on diseased cells, and the nanoparticles can then bind specifically to the diseased tissue.

Line Hansen conjugated peptides and small DNA structures that recognise cancer cells to the surface of the nanoparticles, and achieved specific binding of the nanoparticles to different types of cancer cells. The research results can hopefully contribute to the development of new and more specific nanoparticle-based contrast agents for diagnosing cancer.

The PhD degree was completed at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Centre (iNANO), Science and Technology, Aarhus University.

Time: Wednesday 14 January 2015 at 13.15
Place: Lecture Theatre, iNANO House, building 1593, room 012, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej
Title of dissertation: Targeted Nanoparticles for Molecular Imaging of Cancer
Contact information: Line Hansen, lh05@inano.au.dk
Members of the assessment committee:
Professor Alexander M. Seifalian, NanoRegMed Ltd, London, UK
Professor Torben Moos, Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University
Professor Daniel Otzen (chair), iNANO and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Main supervisor:
Professor Jørgen Kjems, iNANO and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Language: The dissertation will be defended in English

The defence is public.
The dissertation is available for reading at the Graduate School of Science and Technology/GSST, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, room 112, 8000 Aarhus C.