Nanotechnology is the branch of technology that deals with dimensions and tolerances of less than 100 nanometres. Nanotechnology is applied in various fields due to its ability to change physical, chemical, and biological properties and manipulate it to achieve the required functionality which is otherwise not possible with bulk materials.
Applications of Nanotechnology in healthcare:
1. Accuracy in disease diagnosis: Carbon nanotubes have been used to detect diseases such as HIV and cancer. Nanoflares are used for detection of cancer cells in the bloodstream. Similarly, nanotechnology- based TB diagnostic kit, currently undergoing clinical trials.
2. Precise Drug Delivery: Tackle the issues of low drug absorption rate by the body. Precision drugs have the characteristics of better permeation of the active ingredient to cell membranes.
3. Cell Repair: Manufactured nano-robots repairs at the cellular level.
4. Antibacterial Treatments: Technique to kill bacteria using gold nanoparticles and infrared light provides a possible solution to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
5. Personalised Medication: Will reduce side effects of a medicine.
Nanotechnology holds promising results in revolutionising the health sector by making it more efficient, customised, affordable and accessible to all.