Future Perspectives on Nanomaterials: Emerging Applications in Biology and Technology

Nanomaterials, typically <100nm in size, exhibit high surface area, quantum effects, and enhanced reactivity. These properties enable their use in catalysis, drug delivery, biosensing, and energy storage [1].

Modern techniques such as green synthesis, atomic layer deposition, and electrospinning allow precise control over nanomaterial morphology. Tools like TEM, AFM, and XRD reveal structure–property relationships essential for functional optimization [2].

Energy

A. Nanostructured electrodes improve lithium-ion battery performance.
B. Quantum dots enhance solar cell efficiency via superior light absorption [3].

Medicine

Targeted drug delivery: Liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles deliver drugs directly to tumor cells, minimizing side effects.
Imaging: Gold and iron oxide nanoparticles enhance MRI and CT contrast.

Cancer Immunotherapy:

a) Nanoparticles deliver immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., anti-PD-1, anti-CTLA-4) to tumor sites, reducing systemic toxicity.
b) Lipid nanoparticles are used in mRNA-based cancer vaccines,
c) stimulating antigen-specific immunity [2,3].

Diagnosis:

a) Nanobiosensors detect disease biomarkers with high sensitivity.
b) Lab-on-a-chip devices enable rapid diagnostics for infectious diseases.
c) Quantum dots and SERS amplify signals in molecular assays [1].

Therapeutics:

a) Gold nanoshells enable photothermal therapy.
b) Iron oxide nanoparticles induce magnetic hyperthermia.
c) Nanocarriers improve chemotherapy delivery and RNAbased gene modulation [3].

Environment

Nanomaterials contribute to water purification, pollutant degradation, and air filtration, offering sustainable solutions for environmental challenges [1].

Key challenges include scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory approval. Future efforts should focus on eco-friendly synthesis, long-term safety, and integration into clinical and industrial platforms [2].

Nanomaterials are reshaping science and technology. With interdisciplinary collaboration and responsible innovation, their full potential can be realized across medicine, energy, and environmental sectors.

1. Bai S, Kang Y, Li S, Ma S, Sasayama T (2025) Research on nanomaterials in tumor diagnosis and therapy. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology 12: 1545581.
2. Sharma A, Bhatia D (2024) Programmable bionanomaterials for revolutionizing cancer immunotherapy. Biomaterials 12(21): 5415-5432.
3. Zhang Z, Chen L (2025) Nanomaterials in cancer immunotherapy: Targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts. Cancer Nanotechnology 16: 1-41.