Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2011 Mar;54(3):185-191. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2011.54.3.185.

Clinical Application of Nanotechnology

• Baek SK

• KMID: 2277213
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2011.54.3.185

Abstract

The limitations of current modalities for diagnosis and treatment of various diseases including cancer have led to look for the method with more sensitivity or specificity and lower toxicity. The advance in nanobiotechnology has shown the possibility to get newer and improved diagnostic and treatment method. Especially, gold nanoparticles can be applied diagnostically for early detection of cancer cells by molecular imaging or therapeutically for drug delivery, including chemotherapeutic drugs, photothermal therapy, and ionizing radiation enhancement. This review discusses characteristics, action mechanisms, and clinical application of nanoparticle. Even if the safety of nanoparticles is not yet fully defined, there is no doubt that nanotechnology in the future may play an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of various human diseases.

Keyword

Nanotechnology; Nanoparticles; Drug delivery systems; Laser therapy

MeSH Terms

Drug Delivery Systems
Early Detection of Cancer
Humans
Laser Therapy
Molecular Imaging
Nanoparticles
Nanotechnology
Radiation, Ionizing
Sensitivity and Specificity