Nanotechnology-enabled biomedical engineering: Current trends, future scopes, and perspectives

Abstract

Applications of nanotechnology in biomedical engineering are vast and span several interdisciplinary areas of nanomedicine, diagnostics, and nanotheranostics. Herein, we provide a brief perspective on nanotechnology as an enabling tool for the design of new functional materials and devices for medical applications. Semiconductor nanocrystals, also known as quantum dots, are commonly used in optical imaging to diagnose diseases such as cancer. Varieties of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, and two-dimensional carbon-based nanostructures, are prospective therapeutics and may also be used in protective antiviral/antibacterial applications. Similarly, a number of nanomaterials have shown the potential to overcome the drawbacks of conventional antiviral drugs. However, assessing the adverse effects and toxicities of nanoparticles in medicine and therapeutics is becoming more critical. This article discusses the latest developments of nanomaterials in diagnosis, nanotheranostics, and nanomedicines, with particular emphasis on the importance of nanomaterials in fighting against coronavirus disease. Further, we considered the safety and toxicity of nanomaterials in the context of biomedical applications. Finally, we provided our perspective on the future of nanotechnology in emerging biomedical engineering fields.