Editor's Notes:
Season 3 of the educational science program "Mr. Science" has started to air on Beijing Radio and Television Station (BRTV) every Tuesday at 21:05 since July 30, 2024. Each episode features a prominent Chinese scientist who imparts wisdom and experiences to a group of university and middle school students known as the "Future Team," fostering an engaging learning environment. Here are the stories of these distinguished scientists.
Zhao Yuliang is a distinguished chemist and academician whose contributions to nanotechnology and toxicology have made a significant impact in the field of science. His career began in 1985 when he graduated from Sichuan University. Shortly after, he joined the Nuclear Power Institute of China, where he was assigned to a remote area in Sichuan. He worked tirelessly, often on call, and took advantage of the quiet nights to self-study English.
In 1989, Zhao's hard work paid off when he received an opportunity to further his studies at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute. During his time there, he made a groundbreaking contribution alongside his team by discovering element 113 (Nh), the first element identified by an Asian country on the periodic table. This discovery was a notable advancement in nuclear physics and chemistry, solidifying Zhao's reputation in the scientific community.
Despite his rising fame, Zhao made a choice to return to China, where he would focus on an emerging field: nanobiological effects and safety. In 2001, he joined the Institute of High Energy Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Faced with challenges related to the available equipment, Zhao decided to pivot his research toward the burgeoning field of nanotechnology. Through comprehensive investigation, he recognized "nanobiological safety" as an uncharted territory ripe for exploration.
This realization led Zhao to establish China's first key laboratory for "Nanobiological Effects and Safety," positioning the country among the leaders in this innovative field. His pioneering contributions have laid the groundwork for the safe application of nanotechnology, addressing pressing concerns around the biological safety of nanomaterials.
In 2003, Zhao presented the concept of "nanotoxicology" at the Xiangshan Science Conference, a moment that sparked considerable interest and discussion within the scientific community. He adopted a holistic approach, seeking to understand not only the potential toxicity of nanomaterials but also their medical applications. This dual focus has ensured a comprehensive understanding of the subject, further solidifying the credibility of his research.
Zhao's leadership and vision have guided his team to achieve notable breakthroughs in nanomedicine and drug delivery. One of their remarkable innovations includes the design of the first "nanorobot," capable of delivering drugs precisely within living organisms. This technology, successfully implemented in 2018, has been recognized as a significant milestone in the global scientific landscape. The advent of nanorobots holds promise for revolutionizing treatments for diseases, particularly cancer, by targeting affected areas with unprecedented precision.
As Zhao and his team continue to advance their research, nanorobot technology is moving toward preclinical trials, breathing new life into global medical technology. The ongoing exploration of nanomedicine not only enhances research methodologies but also holds the potential to transform clinical practices, ultimately benefiting human health and well-being.
Zhao Yuliang's journey is characterized by his curiosity and commitment to science, along with a willingness to explore uncharted territories. His work has not only filled critical gaps in nanotechnology and toxicology but has also provided a solid foundation for the future of medical applications in the realm of nanoscience. As research continues to unfold, Zhao's contributions are expected to pave the way for advancements that could change the landscape of healthcare in the years to come.