Nanostructures: Enhancing Potential Applications in Biomedicals

Shalini Singh

AMITY Institute of Biotechnology, AMITY University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, India.

DOI: 10.4236/jbnb.2013.41002                

Abstract

Nanotechnology is defined as the study and application of 1 - 100 nm sized structures. Nanomaterials have opened avenues for the industries and scientific endeavors. These recognized for unique size, dependant physical and chemical properties (optical, magnetic, catalytic, thermodynamic, electrochemical) [1]. Most significant properties of nanoparticles is their carbon strength. It is said to be so tough that recently with a nano-sized particles i.e. carbon nanotube—a bullet proof T-shirt/vests was manufactured. Nanotechnology were firstly proposed/initiated by Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman in 1959 [2]. This science is credited to have applications ranging from electronics, biomedicals, food, fuel cells to biosensors and even fabrics. Though every field of science progressing but still faces some lacunae and that result in development of a new technology. The thriving biomedical techniques for disorders like cancers etc. is still in developmental stage where researchers and doctors are working hard for concrete therapeutic results from such nano-techniques. On Cancers, the harmful side effects of its treatment like chemotherapy can’t be left aside which is result of one of its drug delivery methods that don’t pinpoint their intended target cells accurately rather affects whole area. Researchers in universities like Harvard and MIT have been able to attach special RNA strands, measuring about 10nm in diameter, to nanoparticles and fill the nanoparticles with a chemotherapy drug. The RNA strands get attracted to cancer cells. When the nanoparticle encounters a cancer cell it adheres to it and releases the drug into the cancer cell. This directed method of drug delivery has great potential for treating cancer patients while producing less side harmful effects than those produced by conventional chemotherapy [3]. This paper provides valuable information to the researchers, knowledge experts and policy makers regarding the application of nanotechnology and its values in science and technology. Biomedical is one of the major issues which were catered by nanotechnology.

Keywords

Bionanotechnology; Nanoparticles; Medical Therapeutics; Cancers; Target Drug System; Nanoburrs; Quantum Dots

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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