Medical Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine

Book excerpt: Considering the fluid nature of nano breakthroughs—and the delicate balance between benefits and consequences as they apply to medicine—readers at all levels require a practical, understandable base of information about these developments to take greatest advantage of them. Medical Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine meets that need by introducing non-experts to nanomedicine and its evolving organizational infrastructure. This practical reference investigates the impact of nanotechnology on applications in medicine and biomedical sciences, and the broader societal and economic effects. Eschewing technological details, it focuses on enhancing awareness of the business, regulatory, and administrative aspects of medical applications. It gives readers a critical, balanced, and realistic evaluation of existing nanomedicine developments and future prospects—an ideal foundation upon which to plan and make decisions. Covers the use of nanotechnology in medical applications including imaging, diagnosis and monitoring, drug delivery systems, surgery, tissue regeneration, and prosthetics Part of the Perspectives in Nanotechnology series—which contains broader coverage of the societal implications of nanotechnology—this book can be used as a standalone reference. Organized by historical perspective, current status, and future prospects, this powerful book: Explores background, definitions and terms, and recent trends and forces in nanomedicine Surveys the landscape of nanomedicine in government, academia, and the private sector Reviews projected future directions, capabilities, sustainability, and equity of nanomedicine, and choices to be made regarding its use Includes graphical illustrations, references, and keywords to reinforce concepts and aid further research In its assessment of alternative and sometimes conflicting concepts proposed for the application of nanotechnology to medicine, this book surveys major initiatives and the work of leading labs and innovators. It uses informative examples and case summaries to illustrate proven accomplishments and imagined possibilities in research and development.