Inorganic nanobiomaterial drug carriers for medicine

Inorganic nanomedicine refers to the use of inorganic or hybrid nanomaterials and nanosized objects to achieve innovative medical breakthroughs for drug and gene discovery and delivery, discovery of biomarkers, and molecular diagnostics. It is widely believed that nanomaterials will be increasingly used in biomedical applications. However, before these novel materials can be safely applied in a clinical setting, their biocompatibility, biodistribution and biodegradation needs to be carefully assessed. There are a number of different classes of nanoparticles that hold promise for biomedical purposes. Here, we will focus on some of the most commonly studied nanomaterials: Ca-P ceramics, mesoporous silica particles, magnetic nanoparticles, and carbon nanotubes. In this review, we discuss the mechanism of cellular uptake of inorganic nanoparticles and the biodistribution depending on the physicochemical properties of the particles and in particular on their surface characteristics. Limitations and toxicity issues associated with inorganic nanoparticles in living organisms are also discussed.