Nanotechnology and Biomedicine(3)
Source: Neelina H. Malsch_Biomedical Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology provides investigation tools and technology platforms for bio- medicine. Examples include working in the subcellular environment, investigating and transforming nanobiosystems (for example, the nervous system) rather than individual nanocomponents, and developing new nanobiosensor platforms. Investi- gative methods of nanotechnology have made inroads in uncovering fundamental biological processes, including self-assembling, subcellular processes, and system biology (for example, the biology of the neural system).Key advancements have been made in measurements at the molecular and sub- cellular levels and in understanding the cell as a highly organized molecular mech- anism based on its abilities of information utilization, self-organization, self-repair, and self-replication.4 Single molecule measurements are shedding light on the dynamic and mechanistic properties of molecular biomachines, both in vivo and in vitro, allowing direct investigation of molecular motors, enzyme reactions, protein dynamics, DNA transcription, and cell signaling. Chemical composition has been measured within a cell in vivo.Another trend is the transition from understanding and control of a single nano- structure to nanosystems. We are beginning to understand the interactions of sub- cellular components and the molecular origins of diseases. This has implications in the areas of medical diagnostics, treatments, and human tissue replacements. Spatial and temporal interactions of cells including intracellular forces have been measured. Atomic force microscopy has been used to measure intermolecular binding strength of a pair of molecules in a physiological solution, providing quantitative evidence of their cohesive function.5 Flows and forces around cells have been quantitatively determined, and mechanics of biomolecules are better understood.6 It is accepted that cell architecture and macro behavior are determined by small-scale intercellular interactions.Other trends include the ability to detect molecular phenomena and build sensors and systems of sensors that have high degrees of accuracy and cover large domains. Fluorescent semiconductor nanoparticles or quantum dots can be used in imaging as markers for biological processes because they photobleach much more slowly than dye molecules and their emission wave lengths can be finely tuned. Key challenges are the encapsulation of nanoparticles with biocompatible layers and avoiding non- specific adsorption. Nanoscience investigative tools help us understand self-organiza- tion, supramolecular chemistry and assembly dynamics, and self-assembly of nano- scopic, mesoscopic, and even macroscopic components of living systems.7Emerging areas include developing realistic molecular modeling for “soft” mat- ter,8 obtaining nonensemble-averaged information at the nanoscale, understanding energy supply and conversion to cells (photons and lasers), and regeneration mech- anisms. Because the first level of organization of all living systems is at the nanoscale,it is expected that nanotechnology will affect almost all branches of medicine. This volume discusses important contributions in key areas. In Chapter 1, Morrison and Malsch discuss worldwide trends in biomedical nanotechnology programs. They cover the efforts of governments, academia, research organizations, and other entities related to biomedical nanotechnology.
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