Inorganic nanomedicine--part 2.

Inorganic nanomaterials (INMs) and nanoparticles (NPs) are important in our lives because of their use as drugs, imaging agents, and antiseptics. Among the most promising INMs being developed are metal, silica, dendrimers, organic-inorganic hybrids, and bioinorganic hybrids. Gold NPs are important in imaging, as drug carriers, and for thermotherapy of biological targets. Gold NPs, nanoshells, nanorods, and nanowires have the extensive potential to be an integral part of our imaging toolbox and useful in the fight against cancer. Metal NP contrast agents enhance magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound results in biomedical applications of in vivo imaging. Hollow and porous INMs have been exploited for drug and gene delivery, diagnostic imaging, and photothermal therapy. Silver NPs show improved antimicrobial activity. Silica NPs have been used in drug delivery and gene therapy. Biomolecular inorganic nanohybrids and nanostructured biomaterials have been exploited for targeted imaging and therapy, drug and gene delivery, and regenerative medicine. Dendrimers find use as drug or gene carriers, contrast agents, and sensors for different metal ions. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR: This manuscript is the second part of an extensive review about Inorganic nanomaterials and nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are used as drugs, drug delivery agents, imaging contrast materials and antiseptics. Specific classes with examples are discussed and described.