Nanonetworks and Molecular Communications for Biomedical Applications

For millions of years, cells have evolved to perform incredible functions in all living organisms despite their nanoscale size. Consider white blood cells. They are fighting a never-ending war against bacteria, viruses, and other threats that enter your body. They produce vital antibodies to destroy pathogens in ways that almost seem as if the cells are independently communicating. And yes, this is true: cells do communicate, typically through the release of chemical compounds that trigger responses in nearby cells. To give a specific example related to white blood cells, basophils (a type of white blood cell) release histamines, which prompt blood vessels to dilate near the affected area of the body. This increases blood flow to the region, allowing for more white blood cells to reach the area and at tack suspected pathogens nearby.