NANOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS IN LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICS

Abstract

The science of nanotechnology has proved to be among the most revolutionary discoveries in science for the twenty-first century, especially in relation to the domain of laboratory diagnostics. Using the novel physicochemical properties of nanoparticles, whose size usually ranges from 1 to 100 nanometers, it has become possible to create a new generation of diagnostic tests that surpass conventional methods in their specificity, sensitivity, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, some types of tests based on nanotechnological advancements have even been created for use in point-of-care diagnostics settings. In this chapter, we shall discuss the types of nanoparticles that have found widespread applications in diagnostics. These include gold nanoparticles, quantum dots, magnetic nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and nano biosensors. A lot of emphasis is laid upon the performance benefits of nano-technology-based diagnostics as compared to conventional techniques, along with the issues related to regulatory approval, standardization, and large-scale clinical application of nanotechnology-based diagnostic techniques. Finally, the chapter ends with a futuristic outlook regarding the application of nanotechnology in combination with AI and microfluidics in diagnostic laboratories of tomorrow.