Biomedical Applications of Nanomaterials as Therapeutics

Title:Biomedical Applications of Nanomaterials as Therapeutics

Volume: 25 Issue: 12

Author(s): Cheng-Teng Ng*, Gyeong-Hun Baeg, Liya E. Yu, Choon-Nam Ong*Boon-Huat Bay

Affiliation:

• Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore,Singapore

• NUS Environmental Research Institute, 5A Engineering Drive 1, National University of Singapore,Singapore

Keywords: Zinc oxide nanomaterials, diagnostic, therapeutic, nanomedicine, biomedical applications, theranostic agents.

Abstract: Background: As nanomaterials possess attractive physicochemical properties, immense research efforts have been channeled towards their development for biological and biomedical applications. In particular, zinc nanomaterials (nZnOs) have shown great potential for use in in the medical and pharmaceutical fields, and as tools for novel antimicrobial treatment, thereby capitalizing on their unique antimicrobial effects.

Methods: We conducted a literature search using databases to retrieve the relevant articles related to the synthesis, properties and current applications of nZnOs in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. A total of 86 publications were selected for inclusion in this review.

Results: Besides studies on the properties and the methodology for the synthesis of nZnOs, many studies have focused on the application of nZnOs as delivery agents, biosensors and antimicrobial agents, as well as in bioimaging.

Conclusion: This review gives an overview of the current development of nZnOs for their potential use as theranostic agents. However, more comprehensive studies are needed to better assess the valuable contributions and the safety of nZnOs in nanomedicine.

Cite this article as:

Ng Cheng-Teng*, Baeg Gyeong-Hun , Yu E. Liya , Ong Choon-Nam*, Bay Boon-Huat, Biomedical Applications of Nanomaterials as Therapeutics, Current Medicinal Chemistry 2018; 25 (12) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/0929867324666170331120328