  In this paper, we discuss biological effects of electromagnetic (EM) fields
in the context of cancer biology. In particular, we review the nanomechanical
properties of microtubules (MTs), the latter being one of the most successful
targets for cancer therapy. We propose an investigation on the coupling of
electromagnetic radiation to mechanical vibrations of MTs as an important basis
for biological and medical applications. In our opinion optomechanical methods
can accurately monitor and control the mechanical properties of isolated MTs in
a liquid environment. Consequently, studying nanomechanical properties of MTs
may give useful information for future applications to diagnostic and
therapeutic technologies involving non-invasive externally applied physical
fields. For example, electromagnetic fields or high intensity ultrasound can be
used therapeutically avoiding harmful side effects of chemotherapeutic agents
or classical radiation therapy.
