Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
providing low side ef ects and targeted action on cancer cells. h e nano-
drugs are selectively and specii cally targeted only towards tumors, result-
ing in better treatment. h e important molecules used for the preparation
of nanodrugs are cisplatin, carboplatin, bleomycin, 5-l uorouracil, doxoru-
bicin, dactinomycin, 6-mercaptopurine, paclitaxel, topotecan, vinblastin,
etoposide, etc. h e most commonly used materials for preparing nanopar-
ticle carriers are dendrimers, polymers, liposomes, micelles, inorganic and
organic nanoparticles, etc. [206]. Various forms of nanocarriers, such as
nanoparticles (polymeric, inorganic, and solid lipid), liposomes, polymeric
micelles, dendrimers, cyclodextrins, and cell-based nanoformulations have
been studied for delivery of drugs intended for HIV prevention or therapy.
Nanocarriers provide a means to overcome cellular and anatomical barri-
ers to drug delivery. h eir application in the area of HIV prevention and
therapy may lead to the development of more ef ective drug products for
combating this pandemic disease [207]. h e unique physical properties of
nanoscale materials can be utilized to produce novel and ef ective sensors
for cancer diagnosis, agents for tumor imaging, and therapeutics for can-
cer treatment. Functionalizing inorganic nanoparticles with biocompatible
polymers and natural or rationally designed biomolecules of ers a route
towards engineering responsive and multifunctional composite systems.
Nanocomposite materials based on functionalized metal and semicon-
ductor nanoparticles promise to transform the way cancer is diagnosed
and treated [208]. Das
et al.
have developed a gold nanoparticle and silica
nanoparticle mediated drug delivery system containing NO donors, which
could be used for potential therapeutic application in chronic liver dis-
ease [209]. Inorganic nanomaterials (INMs) and nanoparticles (NPs) are
important in our lives because of their use as drugs, imaging agents, and
antiseptics. Among the most promising INMs being developed are metals,
silicas, dendrimers, organic-inorganic hybrids, and bioinorganic hybrids.
Gold NPs are important in imaging, as drug carriers, and for thermother-
apy of biological targets. Gold NPs, nanoshells, nanorods, and nanowires
have extensive potential to be an integral part of our imaging toolbox and
useful in the i ght against cancer. Metal NP contrast agents enhance mag-
netic resonance imaging and ultrasound, resulting in biomedical applica-
tions of
in vivo
imaging. Hollow and porous INMs have been exploited
for drug and gene delivery, diagnostic imaging, and photothermal therapy.
Silver NPs show improved antimicrobial activity. Silica NPs have been
used in drug delivery and gene therapy. Biomolecular inorganic nanohy-
brids and nanostructured biomaterials have been exploited for targeted
imaging and therapy, drug and gene delivery, and regenerative medicine.
Dendrimers i nd use as drug or gene carriers, contrast agents, and sensors
