title: Application of semiconductor and metal nanostructures in biology and medicine.
abstract: Advances in nanotechnology research have led to the creation of new generation of contrast agents, therapeutics, and delivery systems. These applications are expected to significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases. Two nanotechnologies-semiconductor and metallic nanostructures-are the most advanced in this young field and have been extensively investigated for clinical use. These nanostructures are currently the "model" for the developments of many novel nanostructures. This review describes their chemical design, tunable properties, and utility in medicine. Furthermore, we will describe the current understanding of their toxicity, which could be barriers to their use for human.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Biomaterials & Biomedical Engineering, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Carl
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Walkey
authors.forename: Edward A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Sykes
authors.forename: Warren C W
authors.initials: WC
authors.lastname: Chan
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002478:Cells, Cultured / Q000187:drug effects; D003124:Colorimetry / Q000379:methods; D003287:Contrast Media; D004337:Drug Carriers; D015195:Drug Design; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D006046:Gold / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D053758:Nanoparticles; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use / Q000648:ultrastructure; D043942:Nanotubes / Q000633:toxicity; D010316:Particle Size; D014677:Pharmaceutical Vehicles; D011009:Pneumoconiosis / Q000209:etiology; D045663:Quantum Dots; D012666:Semiconductors; D020349:Surface Plasmon Resonance
chemical_list: D003287:Contrast Media; D004337:Drug Carriers; D005456:Fluorescent Dyes; D014677:Pharmaceutical Vehicles; D006046:Gold