AuroShell™ particles were developed in the laboratories of Naomi Halas, PhD, at Rice University in the 1990s. In collaboration with Jennifer West, PhD, of Rice University, a series of life science applications were envisioned which led to the formation of Nanospectra. Formal operations commenced in 2002 to commercialize applications using AuroShell™ particles.

Nanospectra is focused on the development of AuroLase™ Therapy to selectively destroy solid tumors. See AuroLase™ Cancer Therapy. We have FDA approval to commence a human trial for the treatment of head and neck cancers, and we expect this clinical trial will commence in 2008. Other cancer applications will be developed after these initial trials.

In addition to our cancer therapy, we have externally-funded research for Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) using AuroShell microparticles and a program to develop a near-infrared blocking contact lens. See Collaboration Opportunities.

We are advised by a group of world-class researchers and experienced biotech entrepreneurs and have secured peer-reviewed grants and awards exceeding $5 million to develop our AuroShell™ particles for diagnosis and treatment of cancer and for other diagnostic and industrial applications.