An article features Rice research that determined that polyethylene glycol and graphene quantum dots from common coal are just as effective at halting damage from superoxide and hydrogen peroxides as materials studied in 2013. James Tour, the T.T. and W.F. Chao Chair in Chemistry and a professor of computer science and of materials science and nanoengineering, is quoted.

Researchers found that their biocompatible dots, when modified with a common polymer, effectively mimic the body’s own superoxide dismutase, one of many natural enzymes that keep oxidative stress in check. But because the rapid production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that race to heal an injury can overwhelm natural antioxidants, the team has been working for years to see if a quick injection of reactive nanomaterials can limit the collateral damage these free radicals can cause to healthy cells.

Futurity (This article also appeared in 10 other media outlets.)

Link to article.