The state of nanoparticle-based nanoscience and biotechnology: progress, promises, and challenges.

Pelaz, Beatriz; Jaber, Sarah; de Aberasturi, Dorleta Jimenez; Wulf, Verena; Aida, Takuzo; de la Fuente, Jesús M; Feldmann, Jochen; Gaub, Hermann E et al. · ACS Nano · 2012

basic_science · Level V

Where this comes from

Abstract

Colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) have become versatile building blocks in a wide variety of fields. Here, we discuss the state-of-the-art, current hot topics, and future directions based on the following aspects: narrow size-distribution NPs can exhibit protein-like properties; monodispersity of NPs is not always required; assembled NPs can exhibit collective behavior; NPs can be assembled one by one; there is more to be connected with NPs; NPs can be designed to be smart; surface-modified NPs can directly reach the cytosols of living cells.

Medical subject headings