Editor's Corner

Time to focus
The FDA recently organized a conference on nanotechnology that quickly turned into a forum about what's wrong with the FDA. That's a popular topic these days, but we shouldn't overlook the criticisms. According to several experts at the forum, the FDA has become little more than a cheerleader for nanotechnology rather than the objective monitor for safety and efficacy that it should be. In many cases, nanobio is delivering radically new and improved therapies. Nanotechnology can make new drugs possible by changing the way therapies are delivered and metabolized. But with any emerging science, there is a serious need for ongoing studies to make sure that these therapies are working as planned after they gain approval. No doubt the new criticisms added to the recent report from the IOM will spur fresh calls for reform. But this is about basic principles. The FDA doesn't need to wait for someone else to restructure the agency. It can start today. Nanotechnology has a major role to play in the development of new therapies. Demonstrating that nanobio can be used safely is a key part of its growing role. - John Carroll