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Who knew gold nanoshells may take deadly aim at cancer?

Human trials sponsored by Houston-based Nanospectra Biosciences seek to determine whether nanoshells — the tiny gold-covered glass globes created by Rice University Professor Naomi Halas — can treat cancer in humans. Here’s how they work: The nanoparticles are injected into the body and absorbed by the tumor. Once inside, the gold soaks up near-infrared light that raises its temperature and burns away the cancerous cells. Can this army of tiny gold specks strike a blow against one of the world’s most vicious diseases? Let’s hope they prove to be a magic bullet.