Researchers from Leeds University and Cambridge University, both in the U.K., have developed golden nanotubes that can reportedly kill mesothelioma.

To battle mesothelioma, a type of cancer associated with asbestos exposure, researchers inserted the hollow golden nanotubes into mesothelioma cancer cells. Once inside, researchers shone a laser on the nanotubes, which absorbed the light, heated the nanotubes up and, subsequently, destroyed the cells from within.

Confocal fluorescence image of gold nanotures (green) in mesothelioma cells. Source: Arsalan Azad

According to the research teams, the gold nanotubes are tunable. As such, features of the nanotubes — such as wall thickness, microstructure composition and the ability to absorb specific wavelengths of light — can be tailored by researchers.

The team intends to investigate how to eventually load the nanotubes with medicine for additional medical treatment.

The research is detailed in the journal Small.