Engineering nanomaterials for biosensors and therapeutics

Nanomaterials have attracted lots of recent research attention as they possess unique photophysical, magnetic, and thermal properties with the potential of being engineered for various biomedical theranostic applications. The objective of this book chapter is to provide a timely overview on the synthetic methodology, surface engineering, physiological itinerary, and theranostic applications for the nanophases and nanostructures consisting of inorganic and/or organic materials. This chapter starts with an introduction, followed by a brief review of the applications and preparative methods of the inorganic nanomaterials with surface plasmon resonance, photoluminescence, magnetic, and bioactive properties. The effects of surface modification with polymers and morphology on the physiological itinerary and toxicity of the nanomaterials are then discussed to help the design of vehicles for targeted tissue imaging and drug delivery. Finally, examples of several promising nanotechnologies and theranostic applications are given including biosensors, magnetic hyperthermia, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for tumor treatment. This chapter ends with a conclusion and future perspective section. To make use of all the innovative ideas and demonstrative prove-of-principles of nanomaterials for practical biomedical applications, it is absolutely necessary to emphasize and expand efforts on their translational research and development, including clinical studies and large-scale manufacturing of these novel engineered nanomaterials.