Wauters J.
Flanders Investment and Trade - Consulate General of Belgium, US
Keywords: alliance, converging technologies, Nanobiotechnology
The breakthroughs in nanoelectronics, nanotechnology and biotechnology are resulting in a growing convergence of nano with bio, as they both ‘work’ at the nanoscale. Think e.g. of nanotherapeutics, where nanoparticles, loaded with drugs, can be delivered specifically in tumors, thus e.g. avoiding unwanted side effects induced by classical chemotherapy. This growing convergence is going to be unprecedented in terms of applications and services in a broad range of industries, provided one can tackle the equally amazingly broad range of disciplines needed. In order to accomplish this, the next big wave, as nanobiotechnology is sometimes called, will push biotech and nanotech R&D centers and companies from all across the spectrum to work more closely together. Consequently, the importance of regional, state, national and global initiatives cannot be overestimated. Regional cluster organizations are well suited to establish this as they are the basic drivers behind local and global ecosystems. The presentation will highlight international trends and initiatives in developing a nanobio ecosystem, from scientific research down to marketable products. The key issue at stake will be the discrepancy between different business models used in nanotech/nanoelectronics industries versus biotech and pharma industries. A convergence or a collision course?
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2008: Materials, Fabrication, Particles, and Characterization – Technical Proceedings of the 2008 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 1
Published: June 1, 2008
Pages: 1043 - 1045
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Advanced Manufacturing
ISBN: 978-1-4200-8503-7