Revolutionary Nanotechnology Unveiled: FAST's Impact on Disease Prevention and Treatment

Strategic Insights -

Augusta University scientist Stephen Hsu, PhD, unveiled his groundbreaking nanotechnology, known as FAST, during a keynote address at the 8th World Congress on Infectious Diseases in Rome, Italy. FAST allows compounds that are difficult to dissolve in water to be converted into stable nanoparticles, transforming drug development, viral infection prevention, hospital hygiene, and more. This innovation could have far-reaching implications in various medical and consumer applications.

Key Takeaways:

  • FAST (Facilitated Self-Assembling Technology) is a revolutionary nanotechnology that converts hydrophobic compounds into stable nanoparticles, making them water-friendly and effective for medical and consumer use.
  • The technology uses EC16, a lipid-soluble compound derived from green tea, which has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
  • FAST can transform up to 90% of new drug candidates with poor water solubility and low bioavailability into stable and effective nanoparticles.
  • Applications include alcohol-free disinfectants, nasal sprays for respiratory virus infections, and treatments for long COVID and gastrointestinal viruses.
  • The technology can also transform cannabidiol, ivermectin, quercetin, procyanidin, and retinoic acid, as well as hundreds of existing drugs, into nanoparticle suspensions.
  • Hsu's team has received over $600,000 in NIH grants to develop applications of FAST.

Statistics:

  • 90% of new drug candidates have poor water solubility and low bioavailability, limiting their effectiveness. (Source: Hsu)
  • Over $600,000 in NIH grants have been received to develop applications of FAST. (Source: Hsu)
  • FAST can transform hundreds of existing drugs into stable and effective nanoparticles. (Source: Hsu)
  • EC16-based disinfectant is non-toxic, highly effective against tough pathogens like norovirus and C. difficile. (Source: Hsu)

Sources:

  • Hsu, Stephen. "FAST Nanotechnology Unveiled at Rome Global Congress." Jagwire, Augusta University, July 7, https://jagwire.augusta.edu/fast-nanotechnology-unveiled-at-rome-global-congress-by-au-scientist/