Long Time, Little Activity

IN 1959, RICHARD Feynman suggested that man could maneuver things on an atomic level. It left those who considered this observation with many questions and great possibilities.

Though narrow scientific pursuits followed for the next 20 years, it was not until Eric Drexler’s 1981 paper on molecular engineering that in-depth nanotechnology research was significantly advanced. His theories and observations materially contributed to the biological and medical work discussed in this web site.Five years later, Drexler published his book, Engines of Creation, that captured the imagination of those interested in the nano-future. Chapter 7 of this book, entitled Engines of Healing, is of particular interest. It discusses some of the great potential in the area of nanomedicine.

Organizational Support

Major advances in nanotechnology have been supported through organizations devoted to furthering learning and nurturing relationships. Two principal organizations dedicated to the development of nanotechnology have emerged.

The first is Foresight Institute. Foresight is a non-profit educational organization, headquartered in Palo Alto California, that is focused on the development and promotion of nanotechnologies. Foresight publishes a wealth of technology information through their web site and provides research links to research in many areas of nanotechnology. Of the group’s most significant and important undertakings is the annual Conference on Molecular Nanotechnology, sponsored since 1989. The tenth annual conference is taking place as this web site is being constructed.

Institute for Molecular Manufacturing

The second organization of great significance is the Institute for Molecular Manufacturing. From IMM’s web site, "The Institute for Molecular Manufacturing (IMM) is a nonprofit foundation formed in 1991 to carry out research to develop molecular manufacturing (molecular nanotechnology, or MNT). IMM also promotes guidelines for research and development practices that will minimize risk from accidental misuse or from abuse of molecular nanotechnology.

This site provides information on some of the latest research in the area of nanotechnology as it relates to Medicine and Biology. Beyond this site, we recommend the Foresight Institute and the Institute for Molecular Manufacturing for more research and industry resources.

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