University of Missouri scientist Kattesh Katti discovered how to make gold nanoparticles using naturally occurring elements such as gold salts, soybeans and water which could have major applications in several disciplines. Gold nanoparticles are finding use in cancer detection and treatment, the production of "smart" electronic devices, the treatment of certain genetic eye diseases and the development of "green" automobiles. Gold nanoparticles loaded on alumina are able to completely remove endosulfan, malathion and chlorpyrifos - three pesticides often found at elevated levels in water supplies. Some of the chemicals currently used to make nanoparticles are toxic to humans; this discovery being a "green" process will allow the use of the nanoparticles even in medical research.