Chapter 11 - Inorganic nanoparticles: A new avenue in improving diagnostics

Abstract

Cancer management and the diagnostics are being revolutionized by means of nanotechnology. Nano-based materials have unique properties, which are helpful in their interaction with the biological environment in drug delivery and diagnostics. Inorganic nanoparticles have higher stability rate and are more biocompatible when compared with other organic and polymeric nanocarriers. These nanomaterials have gained interest by the researchers as they offer higher drug loading potential, sustained release of drugs, and targeted therapy. Various successful in vivo and ex vivo protocols have been done by the researcher using these inorganic nanoparticles. These nanoparticles also possess larger surface area apart from the hydrophilic nature and abundant physicochemical multifunctionality properties. Inorganic nanoparticles such as gold nanoparticles, silica nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and fullerenes are used for diagnostic purposes with profound efficacy and accuracy. This chapter focuses on the advancements in inorganic nanoparticles, the synthetic preparation, and diagnostic applications.