Science Daily (02/05/2012)
Nanodiamonds designed to toughen artificial joints could prevent inflammation caused by metal joints shedding debris into the body, researchers wrote in the journal Acta Biomaterialia. Scientists at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are studying the use of nanodiamond coatings on joints made of metal alloys. Debris particles from metal joints are absorbed by scavenging immune cells called macrophages, which can cause inflammation that turns on bone-eating cells near implants. The resulting bone loss may increase the likelihood that implants will break loose and require a second surgery. Although the grinding force within joints can cause even nanodiamonds to shed some debris, nanodiamonds shed fewer, smaller particles. The study authors suggest that the macrophages that engulf nanodiamonds release fewer inflammatory chemicals than those encountering metal and polymer particles. Study results suggest that nanodiamonds are nontoxic in living cells. Next, the researchers will determine where nanodiamond particles go in the body and the safety of this resulting buildup.

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