Nowadays, the term nano has been used in various fields of science and technology. It refers to a nano particle that has a size below 1 nanometer. The word nanos means small particle and it can be any shape including single atoms, crystals, or biological particles. For this reason, it is an area of research for scientists who want to understand how these sub-atomic particles behave. Scientists have also discovered new applications for nano technology like biomedicine, bioengineering, solar cells, electronic materials, sensors for health monitoring, etc. Let us explain some common uses of Nano Technologies in different field of sciences and industries.
Nano technology has played important role in several areas, from medicine to telecommunications. As said above, biotechnology, which includes molecular biology and genetic engineering (a technique applied for modifying gene for better performance), was invented using nano tech. Today, medical application of nano technology is in many ways. Nanoparticles can target specific protein molecules and can be used to make drugs more effective. For example, nanoparticles are used in drug delivery systems (injected directly into a person’s body) to facilitate the effective absorption of insulin into the bloodstream. When combined with artificial insulin, it further reduces the chance of insulin resistance, thus reducing the risk of diabetes. However, it also causes side effects. So, researchers are working on developing safer and more effective drug delivery techniques by implementing nanobots.
Nano technologies in communication sector
Nanodegrees, the most widely known type of nanomaterials, can improve computer transmission speeds. They can increase data processing speeds by allowing electrons within nanoelectrons to transfer at record rates. Therefore, the information within a bit can be transmitted faster compared to conventional bandwidth. At present, the world wide web can reach 1,000 Gb per second. An average user can store 3GB of Internet content in their browser. This number depends on the type of device one has. So, we can expect a massive growth for internet-based devices and more so, communication will improve as a whole. Besides, these networks can connect thousands of countries together to create high-speed connections and even eliminate geographical boundaries which could block the high speed internet. If you want to download your file from another country, there are no problems, just go to Google Maps app. By connecting this map to social media sites such as Facebook or Instagram, people can access your files as long as they are located somewhere other than where you are typing the address. Such methods are used for both mobile networks and fixed networking. Most importantly, the same method works on cellphones, laptops, fridges, washing machines, and televisions too! So, not only do we gain more internet bandwidth but also speed up our work.
Nano technology in biomedical applications
The ability to manipulate DNA can be used to explore potential treatments for diseases such as cancer and hemophilia. There are three major types of nanoparticles being used in biomedicine applications: lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes. Lipid nanoparticles are nano particles with fatty acids, cholesterol, or other nutrients attached. Different types of lipids are used in cancer treatment, lipid rich cell membrane, and stem cells. Polymeric nanoparticles are nanosized particles made of polymer shells. These particles are used to make capsules, drug delivery systems, or anti-cancer therapy. Carbon nanotubes are hollow tubes containing synthetic diamond. These tubes are used to grow in cells such as human skin. Nxts can also prevent bacterial infection and treat many kinds of ear infections, especially those caused with yeast. Nanotechnologists have discovered new uses, for instance, in antibiofacial treatment, where the surface of the face is heated and then it melts the bacteria and fungi from the skin. Not only, it improves blood circulation and eliminates microorganisms. Another application, called Anti-bacterial, uses nanoparticles that can inhibit microbial growth.
Nano tech in biotechnology
Nanobodies can be useful tools for treating allergies. One example is Chanty’s Biopelle, a unique nanoparticle that uses the immune system to combat certain pollutants in your body. It prevents allergens including dust and tobacco smoke molecules from getting a place to live inside your lungs. Another form, LUNO is based on natural antibodies that can be used for fighting viruses, for instance, when infected with SARS-CoV-2, it can reduce viral replication.
Nano tech in food
Nanobiotics, which are used to develop enzymes derived from bacteria or plants. These are used as raw meats and may contain proteins from red meat or vegetables. Nanobiotics are used in milk products, ice cream, drinks, yoghurt, salad dressing, yogurt, and sauces. But the biggest advantage can be found in fresh produce, like fish, nuts, fruit, and vegetables. To create nanobiotics, food components and processes are used. You cannot make it yourself. To make them, you need special ingredients such as sugarcane powder and agar. Also, you also need to add enzymes that can convert sugars into fuel. Apart from increasing production capacity and making fresh products safer for consumers, nanobiotics can also be used for improving flavor. So, if you would like to find out what makes a good strawberry flavour, you could use a few nanobiotic extracts. You can learn more about nanobioscience here.
Nano tech also affects education
Educational institutions have benefited immensely by using nanohackers. They can measure the concentration of oxygen in a room without disturbing students or staff. With its help, educational institutes can enhance learning experiences and provide innovative solutions for everyone.
Nano tech affects healthcare
Nanobiotic medicines can be very helpful during COVID-19 treatment and many other conditions. Their use is necessary because they can improve treatment results. Many pharmaceutical companies are studying the safety and efficiency of these nano medicines. These companies are trying to test the effectiveness and stability of these nano medicines as well as their quality. A company like Novartis is testing its solution with hundreds of patients suffering from asthma and blood clotting. Several large scale and small pharma companies offer numerous tests. Moreover, these companies are exploring numerous novel uses for these bioactive substances in a wide range of therapeutic fields, including disease prevention, cancer treatment, HIV/AIDS, metabolic disorders treatment, and various others. All of these research are done in collaboration with the Department of Bioengineering in Columbia University. Thus, these nano medicines could save lives during the pandemic.
Nano tech benefits economic development.
Nano technology provides advanced equipment in scientific labs and other similar establishments. Hence, it becomes possible to study much deeper into the field. Some laboratories can solve complex problems in chemistry and biology by employing these technology. Through collaborations with universities, medical institutes, and corporate businesses, the industry is able to obtain reliable information from the lab and to develop their own applications for the future.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that the vast amount of studies taking place now can lead to many big discoveries. Though its use is still very limited, the future is bright with nanobionics. We can expect it to get ever better, more efficient, and safer. We can expect more developments in the next years as well as more advancements and innovations. Furthermore, the fact that many governments and organizations are investing in this field will be beneficial to the economic state of society as well. Thanks for reading our article!
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