Emerging Applications of Nanotechnology in Human Welfare with Special Reference to Biomedical Issues

Abstract

Nanotechnology has attracted researchers from diverse fields due to its outstanding potential in providing solutions to current-day problems. It deals with structures that are typi-cally less than 100 nm at least in one of the dimensions. The special focus is due to its unique electrical, magnetic, and chemical properties. Their biological performance is highly dependent on their physical and chemi-cal characteristics such as size, shape, surface charge, surface area, and polarity. Their small size and flexible physicochemical properties make them advantageous in terms of improved drug delivery, targeted therapy, and non-invasive diagnosis, with minimal side effects. In the current chapter, we tried to focus on the applications of nanotechnology in various sections of healthcare such as drug delivery, therapeutics, tissue engineering, and diagnostics. The emphasis was given to the role of the properties of different kinds of nanostructures in their medicinal applications. We also covered the other applications of nanotechnology in the environmental and agri-cultural sectors. Several nanoparticles are successful in the removal of pollutants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and dyes. Nano fertilizers are known to improve crop yield, by responding to the plant signaling stimulus and releasing nutrients. They also improve plant metabolism and prevent nutrient loss. Overall, the involvement of nanotechnology is evident in almost every domain of science and engi-neering. However, some differences in their properties could be responsible for the detri-mental effects on the ecosystem. Hence, there is a need to address several challenges for a better future. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2023.