Overview of nanotechnology
2024-12-11 - 2024-12
Nanotechnology is highly interdisciplinary, involving physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and the full range of the engineering disciplines. The word nanotechnology is widely used as shorthand to refer to both the science and the technology of this emerging field. Narrowly defined, nanoscience concerns a basic understanding of physical, chemical, and biological properties on atomic and near-atomic scales. Nanotechnology, narrowly defined, employs controlled manipulation of these properties to create materials and functional systems with unique capabilities.
In contrast to recent engineering efforts, nature developed “nanotechnologies” over billions of years, employing enzymes and catalysts to organize with exquisite precision different kinds of atoms and molecules into complex microscopic structures that make life possible. These natural products are built with great efficiency and have impressive capabilities, such as the power to harvest solar energy, to convert minerals and water into living cells, to store and process massive amounts of data using large arrays of nerve cells, and to replicate perfectly billions of bits of information stored in molecules of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA).
There are two principal reasons for qualitative differences in material behaviour at the nanoscale (traditionally defined as less than 100 nanometres). First, quantum mechanical effects come into play at very small dimensions and lead to new physics and chemistry. Second, a defining feature at the nanoscale is the very large surface-to-volume ratio of these structures. This means that no atom is very far from a surface or interface, and the behaviour of atoms at these higher-energy sites have a significant influence on the properties of the material. For example, the reactivity of a metal catalyst particle generally increases appreciably as its size is reduced—macroscopic gold is chemically inert, whereas at nanoscales gold becomes extremely reactive and catalytic and even melts at a lower temperature. Thus, at nanoscale dimensions material properties depend on and change with size, as well as composition and structure.
What Can Nanotechnology Do
2024-09-16 - 2024-12
Nanoscience and nanotechnology is an innovative field of research that has accomplished a great deal in the decades since Nobel Prize Laureate Richard Feynman introduced the concept in 1959. In the simplest terms, it deals with materials and devices with nanometer dimensions.
What Can Nanotechnology Do?
Over the past two decades, research and development have led to nanotechnology innovations, producing tailored materials with specific properties at the nanoscale. This has significantly expanded the materials science toolkit available to researchers, process engineers, and companies.
Lighter, stronger, more durable, and more reactive nanomaterials have been manufactured. Research has produced materials with enhanced electrical conductivity and complex architectures, making them suitable for multiple applications at the cutting edge of materials science and in numerous scientific fields.
Nanotechnology is a broad discipline that includes diverse scientific fields such as surface science, molecular biology, molecular engineering, organic chemistry, energy storage, and semiconductor physics.
The field has undergone a rapid evolution, with many nanoscale materials and processes making their way out of the laboratory and into everyday commercial products. Specifically, nanotechnology holds the greatest promise for electronics, energy, biomedicine, the environment, and food.
Carbon nanotubes are predicted to replace silicon as the key material for developing next-generation products in electronics. Carbon nanotubes can produce faster and more efficient microchips and quantum nanowires with strength and high conductivity. Carbon nanotubes can create electronics with greater storage capacities, longer battery life, and increased security.
Energy, specifically clean energy, has greatly benefited from nanotechnology. Nanostructured catalysts, for example, are used to improve the efficiency of fuel cells, nanofluids are used to enhance the transfer efficiency of solar connectors, and quantum dots and carbon nanotubes are used to boost energy absorption in solar cells. Nanotechnology will undoubtedly be fundamental to helping the world switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
Intl. congress on nanoscience, nanotechnology slated for January
2024-12-20 - 2024-12
TEHRAN –The tenth international congress on nanoscience and nanotechnology is scheduled to be held from January 29 to 30 in Rafsanjan, a city in the southern Kerman province.
The congress will mainly cover chemistry, physics, and modern nanotechnology fields, ISNA reported.
Themed ‘nanoscience development through the application of achievements’, the congress seeks to increase the relevance and applicability of nanoscience in daily life, particularly in the industrial sector.
The 10th congress also aims to demonstrate the impact of innovative science by showcasing the most recent research in the field of nanotechnology.
It will center around Nanostructural Material Characterization, Nanoelectronics and Nanophotonics, Nanochemistry and Nanophysics, Nanotechnology in Medical Science and Clinical Medicine, Nanotechnology in Industrial Processes.
Nanotechnology for Energy and Environment, Nanotechnology Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Network, Nanotechnology Safety Considerations, Nanofabrication, Nanoassemblies and Nanoprocessing,
Nanotechnology in Agriculture and Food Science, Nanotechnology in Information Technology, as well as Nanobiotechnology are also among main topics.
Iran a global leader in nano-tech
Iran’s achievements in nanotechnology are noteworthy. The increase in scientific publications and sales of nano products proves Iran’s rise as a global leader in this field.
One of the industries that have experienced good growth in Iran in recent years is the nanotechnology industry, a subject area that has brought Iran to the impressive fourth place worldwide.
According to StatNano, a leading nanotechnology website, Iran has made great strides in the field of nanotechnology being ranked fourth in terms of nanotechnology publication.
This ranking proves the country’s remarkable scientific development.
The site considers the number of scientific articles to compare scientific progress in nanoscience, technology, and industry.
Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter on a near-atomic scale to produce new structures, materials, and devices. The technology promises scientific advancement in many sectors such as medicine, consumer products, energy, materials, and manufacturing. Nanotechnology refers to engineered structures, devices, and systems.
In the past two decades, the world has observed a steady increase in the number of industries producing nano-based products and the number of countries promoting nanotechnology.
More importantly, the ratio of nanotechnology to nominal GDP has increased significantly, suggesting that the contribution of nanotechnology to World GDP has increased. Nanotechnology has also played a key role in the creation of new jobs, Press TV reported.
The nanotechnology sector is a prime example of success in Iran, an arena consisting of expert and program-oriented human resources with significant goals that shine like a jewel in the country’s innovation and technology ecosystem.
With the
Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery Market Growth, Trends & Forecast 2024-2031 | Nanobiotix, NanoCarrier Co. Ltd., NanOlogy LLC
2024-12-23 - 2024-12
The Nanotechnology In Drug Delivery Market report by DataM Intelligence provides insights into the latest trends and developments in the market. This report identifies the key growth opportunities in the market and provides recommendations for market participants to capitalize on these opportunities. Overall, the Nanotechnology In Drug Delivery market report is an essential resource for market participants who are looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of the market and identify opportunities for growth.
The Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery Market size was valued at US$ 51.4 billion in 2023 and is estimated to reach US$ 203.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 17.9% during the forecast period (2024-2031).
The Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery Market focuses on using nanoparticles to enhance the delivery and release of therapeutic agents, improving drug efficacy and reducing side effects. Nanocarriers can target specific cells or tissues, enabling more precise treatments. Market growth is driven by advancements in nanotechnology, increasing demand for targeted therapies, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and cancer, which require more effective drug delivery systems.
Competitive Landscape
The section also contains information related to the new product launches, mergers, acquisitions, collaborations, etc., to give a clear understanding about the competitive landscape prevailing in the global market. With an emphasis on strategies there have been several primary developments done by major companies such as Ceramisphere Health Pvt Limited, Cristal Therapeutics, CYTIMMUNE SCIENCES, Inc., Nanobiotix, NanoCarrier Co. Ltd., NanOlogy LLC, EnColl Corporation, EyePoint Pharmaceuticals, AbbVie Inc., Aquanova AG, BlueWillow Biologics, Camurus AB, Celgene, Inc., Lena Nanoceutics Ltd.
Get Customization in the report as per your requirements + Exclusive Bundle & Multi-User Discounts: https://datamintelligence.com/customize/Nanotechnology-in-Drug-Delivery-market
Market Segments
The detailed segmentation offered in the report will help customers get a clear idea about the market segments and the factors that will drive segmental growth. The Nanotechnology In Drug Delivery market has been segmented
By Technology: Micelles for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery the industry, Nanoparticles, Liposomes, Nanocrystals, Others.
By Applications: Anti-infective, Neurology, Anti-inflammatory/Immunology, Oncology, Cardiovascular/Physiology, Others.
Research Process
Both primary and secondary data sources have been used in the global Nanotechnology In Drug Delivery Market research report. During the research process, a wide range of industry-affecting factors are examined, including governmental regulations, market conditions, competitive levels, historical data, market situation, technological advancements, upcoming developments, in related businesses, as well as market volatility, prospects, potential barriers, and challenges.
Biomimetics and Nanotechnology Create Next Generation in Hull Coatings
2024-12-25 - 2024-12
R&D teams are building on their use of biomimetics, the study of mimicking biological processes, adding in nanotechnology to develop new more efficient hull coatings.
These developments are becoming increasingly important as the shipping industry faces the continuing challenge of improving operating efficiency from in-service vessels to meet emerging regulations and standards.
“By replicating the natural surficial film found on the skin of marine life,” Nippon Paint Marine explains its researchers, “have been able to develop coatings that minimize friction, reduce fuel consumption, and lower vessel emissions.” The company published a white paper, “Breathing Life into Science; Creating the Next Generation of Hull Coatings Using Biomimetics,” that explores its efforts dating back to 2001 and its launch of “hydrogel” technology in developing antifouling coatings.
The company highlights that a specialist team from its R&D program, which included experts in polymer science, biochemistry, fluid dynamics, and marine science, studied the natural characteristics of marine life to inform the development of the HydroSmoothXT technology that would be used in its coatings. They highlight natural examples such as the Tokay Gecko, humpback whale, and suckerfish, and this was used to inform the development of new coatings. As part of the biomimetic R&D program, the team members examined the studies on the high-speed swimming capabilities of tuna which they highlighted can reach 100km/h (more than 60 mph).
In collaboration with institutions including Kobe and Osaka Universities, the project team focused on replicating these natural characteristics to aid in the development of specifically designed hydrogels for paints. The scientific theory is that a hull coating could be created that essentially “traps’” a layer of seawater against the surface membrane, which increases the boundary layer around a vessel’s hull and reduces friction.
Nippon Paint Marine reports the antifouling coatings have been applied to more than 5,000 vessels. The white paper includes vessel examples while the company reports the coatings generated fuel and emissions savings of up to 12.3 percent.
The team turned to nanotechnology following 15 years of testing and amassing and analyzing data from vessels operating with the coatings. The first coatings benefiting from the advanced technology were introduced in 2021. The low-friction, self-polishing antifouling coating uses a unique hydrophilic and hydrophobic nanodomain resin structure in the coating film that they report allows more precise polishing control and the enhanced activity of antifouling components. Nanotechnology also substantially improves the time and the film thickness required for the application. As an example, Nippon Paint Marine reports total minimum drying time at drydock for a large containership is reduced by up to 37 percent.
With a speed loss of just 1.2 percent over a 60-month period, Nippon Paint Marine says th
DNA Nanotechnology Market is expected to Observe Considerable Growth Opportunities to 2031
2024-12-26 - 2024-12
InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "DNA Nanotechnology Market - (By Type (Structural DNA Nanotechnology (Extended Lattices, Discrete Structures, Template Assembly), Dynamic DNA Nanotechnology (Nanomechanical Devices, Strand Displacement Cascades)), By Application (Targeted Drug Delivery, Smart Pills, Nanolithography, Others), By End User (Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Companies, Academic & Research Institutions, Others)), Trends, Industry Competition Analysis, Revenue and Forecast To 2031."
According to the latest research by InsightAce Analytic, the Global DNA Nanotechnology Market is valued at US$ 4.34 Bn in 2023, and it is expected to reach US$ 24.29 Bn by 2031, with a CAGR of 24.6% during the forecast period of 2024-2031.
DNA nanotechnology focuses on developing structures, devices, and systems at the nanoscale by harnessing the special characteristics of DNA molecules. Scientists can create highly precise and targeted nanostructures using DNA nanotechnology because DNA is a programmable building material. The potential of DNA nanotechnology in areas such as medical diagnostics, targeted medication administration, and the creation of high-tech materials with unique characteristics is fueling the industry's rapid expansion. Because of its adaptability and accuracy, DNA nanotechnology shows great promise as a medium for fabricating tailored molecular frameworks and systems likely to drive the DNA nanotechnology market forward.
In addition, the emergence of novel goods and services based on DNA nanotechnology is propelled by substantial research spending by public and private entities, which helps drive future market revenue growth. However, there is a great deal of scientific and technological difficulty in creating and manipulating nanostructures of such a microscopic size, which could slow down the expansion of the industry.
List of Prominent Players in the DNA Nanotechnology Market:
• Genisphere LLC
• INOVIO Pharmaceuticals
• Tilibit nanosystems
• Aummune Therapeutics Ltd
• Nanovery
• Esya Labs
• Nomic
• Torus Biosystems
• Parabon NanoLabs, Inc.
• NanoApps Medical Inc.
• Fox BIOSYSTEMS
• Nanion Technologies GmbH
• Mehr Mabna Darou, Inc.
• Nanowerk
• NuProbe
• Twist Bioscience Corporation
• NanoInk Inc.
• Oxford Nanopore Technologies Ltd.
• Illumina Inc.
• Agilent Technologies Inc.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
• Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.
• Danaher Corporation
• Bruker Corporation
• New England Biolabs Inc.
• Other Market Players
Market Dynamics:
Drivers-
The growing demand for the DNA nanotechnology market is fueled by the fact that DNA nanotechnology can transform industries as diverse as medicine, electronics, and materials research. Its demand is on the rise. For the development of targeted medication delivery systems, enhanced diagnostic tools, and new materials with unique features, its capacity to construct accurate and programmable structures at
Nanotechnology: Light enables an "impossibile" molecular fit
2024-12-27 - 2024-12
Exploiting an ingenious combination of photochemical (i.e., light-induced) reactions and self-assembly processes, a team led by Prof. Alberto Credi of the University of Bologna has succeeded in inserting a filiform molecule into the cavity of a ring-shaped molecule, according to a high-energy geometry that is not possible at thermodynamic equilibrium. In other words, light makes it possible to create a molecular “fit” that would otherwise be inaccessible.
“We have shown that by administering light energy to an aqueous solution, a molecular self-assembly reaction can be prevented from reaching a thermodynamic minimum, resulting in a product distribution that does not correspond to that observed at equilibrium,” says Alberto Credi. “Such a behavior, which is at the root of many functions in living organisms, is poorly explored in artificial molecules because it is very difficult to plan and observe. The simplicity and versatility of our approach, together with the fact that visible light - i.e., sunlight - is a clean and sustainable energy source, allow us to foresee developments in various areas of technology and medicine.”
The self-assembly of molecular components to obtain systems and materials with structures on the nanometer scale (1 nanometer = 1 billionth of a meter) is one of the basic processes of nanotechnology. It takes advantage of the tendency of molecules to evolve to reach a state of thermodynamic equilibrium, that is, of minimum energy. However, living things function by chemical transformations that occur away from thermodynamic equilibrium and can only occur by providing external energy. Reproducing such mechanisms with artificial systems is a complex and ambitious challenge that, if met, could enable the creation of new substances, capable of responding to stimuli and interacting with the environment, which could be used to develop, for example, smart drugs and active materials.
THE MOLECULAR FIT
The interlocking components are cyclodextrins, hollow water-soluble molecules with a truncated cone shape, and azobenzene derivatives, molecules that change shape under the effect of light. In water, interactions between these components lead to the formation of supramolecular complexes in which the filiform azobenzene species is inserted into the cyclodextrin cavity.
In this study, the filiform compound possesses two different ends; since the two rims of the cyclodextrin are also different, insertion of the former into the latter generates two distinct complexes, which differ in the relative orientation of the two components (see figure).
Complex A is more stable than complex B, but the latter forms more rapidly than the former. In the absence of light, only the thermodynamically favored complex, namely A, is observed at equilibrium. By irradiating the solution with visible light, the azobenzene changes from an extended configuration akin to cyclodextrin to a bent one incompatible with the cavity; as a result, the complex dissoci
Dr. Saw Wai Hla receives Feynman Prize for excellence in nanotechnology experimentation
2024-12-30 - 2024-12
Dr. Saw Wai Hla, a professor of physics at Ohio University and a scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory was named by the Foresight Institute as the winner of the 2024 Feynman Prize in nanotechnology in the experiment category. The Foresight Institute is a leading nanotechnology public interest organization.
“I'm extremely honored to receive the Feynman Prize in nanotechnology from the Foresight Institute,” Hla said. “It's a wonderful recognition of my work and that of my colleagues at Argonne and Ohio University.”
The award recognizes Hla’s work to develop more complex molecular machines and motors, atomically precise rotation of rare-earth complexes and, most recently, the analysis of a single atom with X-rays. His research in all of these areas could lead to new technologies for microelectronics, quantum computing, medical devices, battery development and more.
Hla, who is also director of the Nanoscale and Quantum Phenomena Institute at Ohio University, is a leading researcher in the areas of single atom and molecule manipulation with scanning tunneling microscopy, single-molecule spintronics and molecular machines on surfaces.
“Professor Hla’s result is truly wonderful: it is inspiring, it is collaborative, and it opens the doors for new discoveries,” said College of Arts and Sciences Dean Matthew Ando. “The Feynman Prize is outstanding recognition for outstanding work.”
Hla has published over 100 articles and has given more than 160 invited talks in 23 countries. He has also served on numerous national and international boards and has been a proposal reviewer and panelist for DOE, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and European funding agencies.
Recently, Hla was also recognized with a Falling Walls Award, being named the laureate of the Physical Sciences category.
Beginning in 1993, the Foresight Institute has annually awarded the Feynman Prize to researchers whose recent work has most advanced the achievement of renown physicist Richard Feynman's goal for nanotechnology: The construction of atomically precise macro products, devices and machines. The Feynman Prize is recognized in the field of nanotechnology for identifying future Nobel laureates; Sir Fraser Stoddart (2007 Feynman Prize winner) and David Baker (2004 Feynman Prize winner) both went on to become Nobel Prize winners in 2016 and 2024, respectively.
The prize includes a $5,000 award and an invitation to an award ceremony, held Dec. 7 in San Francisco. Hla’s work will also receive public acknowledgment and support.
Is Intel Corporation (INTC) Among the Best Nanotechnology Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds?
2024-12-31 - 2024-12
We recently published a list of the 12 Best Nanotechnology Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:INTC) stands against the other best nanotechnology stocks to buy.
Nanotechnology, a groundbreaking concept introduced by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman in 1959 during a speech at Caltech, focuses on working with materials at an incredibly small scale—between one and 100 nanometers. At the nanoscale, things get interesting—surface area and quantum effects start playing a big role in how materials behave. Nanotechnology thus focuses on understanding and harnessing these unique properties, covering all kinds of research and technologies that take advantage of them.
Small Science VS Big Impact
One of the most exciting applications of nanotechnology is in the semiconductor industry. Today’s cutting-edge chips, like those powering iPhones and AI processors, rely on transistors that are just a few nanometers wide. Nanotechnology also plays a crucial role in improving semiconductor manufacturing, with specialized coatings and treatments that enhance equipment durability and efficiency, cutting downtime and boosting output.
Healthcare is another sector transformed by nanotechnology, becoming a cornerstone of modern biomedicine. From improving cancer diagnosis to enabling targeted drug delivery and advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing, it’s transforming the quality of treatments and boosting patient outcomes. This progress has led to the rise of nanomedicine, a field focused on innovative diagnostics, disease prevention, and streamlined drug development. In drug delivery, nanoscale technologies enhance how medications work by improving their stability and effectiveness. Perhaps the most exciting breakthrough is nanorobots—tiny machines that can travel through the bloodstream to deliver drugs precisely where they’re needed. This approach not only boosts precision but also reduces side effects, paving the way for more personalized and efficient treatments.
In the U.S., the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) drives much of the research and development in this field. With participation from 30 federal agencies, the program underscores nanotechnology’s growing importance. The NNI’s 2024 budget request of $2.16 billion—the largest yet—focuses on both fundamental research and real-world applications. Given the trade tensions with China, which leads the world in nanotech startups, this investment is likely to grow, highlighting the strategic value of staying at the forefront of nanotechnology innovation.
12 Best Nanotechnology Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds
2024-12-30 - 2025-01
In this article, we will take a look at the 12 Best Nanotechnology Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds.
Nanotechnology, a groundbreaking concept introduced by Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman in 1959 during a speech at Caltech, focuses on working with materials at an incredibly small scale—between one and 100 nanometers. At the nanoscale, things get interesting—surface area and quantum effects start playing a big role in how materials behave. Nanotechnology thus focuses on understanding and harnessing these unique properties, covering all kinds of research and technologies that take advantage of them.
Small Science VS Big Impact
One of the most exciting applications of nanotechnology is in the semiconductor industry. Today’s cutting-edge chips, like those powering iPhones and AI processors, rely on transistors that are just a few nanometers wide. Nanotechnology also plays a crucial role in improving semiconductor manufacturing, with specialized coatings and treatments that enhance equipment durability and efficiency, cutting downtime and boosting output.
Healthcare is another sector transformed by nanotechnology, becoming a cornerstone of modern biomedicine. From improving cancer diagnosis to enabling targeted drug delivery and advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing, it’s transforming the quality of treatments and boosting patient outcomes. This progress has led to the rise of nanomedicine, a field focused on innovative diagnostics, disease prevention, and streamlined drug development. In drug delivery, nanoscale technologies enhance how medications work by improving their stability and effectiveness. Perhaps the most exciting breakthrough is nanorobots—tiny machines that can travel through the bloodstream to deliver drugs precisely where they’re needed. This approach not only boosts precision but also reduces side effects, paving the way for more personalized and efficient treatments.
In the U.S., the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) drives much of the research and development in this field. With participation from 30 federal agencies, the program underscores nanotechnology’s growing importance. The NNI’s 2024 budget request of $2.16 billion—the largest yet—focuses on both fundamental research and real-world applications. Given the trade tensions with China, which leads the world in nanotech startups, this investment is likely to grow, highlighting the strategic value of staying at the forefront of nanotechnology innovation.
The potential of nanotechnology is enormous. The global market is projected to soar to $33.63 billion by 2030, growing at an impressive 36.4% annually, according to Allied Market Research. Some sub-segments are expanding even faster—like the graphene market, expected to grow at 46.6% annually, and lipid nanoparticles, projected to rise at a 13.6% CAGR through 2029. With that, let’s take a look at the best nanotechnology stocks to invest in.
12 Best Nanotechnology Stocks to Buy According to Hedg
Half-wave nanolasers and intracellular plasmonic lasing particles
2025-01-02 - 2025-01
The ultimate limit for laser miniaturization would be achieving lasing action in the lowest-order cavity mode within a device volume of ?(?/2n)3, where ? is the free-space wavelength and n is the refractive index. Here we highlight the equivalence of localized surface plasmons and surface plasmon polaritons within resonant systems, introducing nanolasers that oscillate in the lowest-order localized surface plasmon or, equivalently, half-cycle surface plasmon polariton. These diffraction-limited single-mode emitters, ranging in size from 170 to 280?nm, harness strong coupling between gold and InxGa1?xAs1?yPy in the near-infrared (??=?1,000–1,460?nm), away from the surface plasmon frequency. This configuration supports only the lowest-order dipolar mode within the semiconductor’s broad gain bandwidth. A quasi-continuous-level semiconductor laser model explains the lasing dynamics under optical pumping. In addition, we fabricate isolated gold-coated semiconductor discs and demonstrate higher-order lasing within live biological cells. These plasmonic nanolasers hold promise for multi-colour imaging and optical barcoding in cellular applications
Sir Fraser Stoddart, a pioneer in nanoscience, dies at 82
2025-01-02 - 2025-01
Nobel laureate Sir Fraser Stoddart, a Board of Trustees Professor at Northwestern University, died Dec. 30. He was 82.
Stoddart, a pioneer in the fields of nanoscience and organic chemistry, was an outsized figure on the Evanston campus and on campuses he visited around the globe. By introducing an additional type of bond — the mechanical bond — into chemical compounds, Stoddart became one of the few chemists to have opened a new field of chemistry during the past 30 years.
His work on molecular recognition and self-assembly and his subsequent introduction of template-directed routes to mechanically interlocked molecules dramatically changed the way chemists make soft materials.
Throughout his long career of research and teaching, Stoddart mentored a diverse group of more than 500 graduate and postdoctoral students from around the world. Gregarious and thoughtful, he particularly cherished this work and the resulting relationships, many of them lifelong.
“Fraser was a giant in fields of nanoscience and organic chemistry, but his influence was equally impressive in the classrooms and labs on our campus,” said Northwestern President Michael Schill. “He was incredibly generous with his time and mentored so many students and faculty, helping pave important new paths of inquiry and discovery. His impact on our university — and the world — was enormous.”
A Northwestern Nobel
Stoddart received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2016, along with Jean-Pierre Sauvage and Bernard L. Feringa, “for the design and synthesis of molecular machines.” The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences credited them with developing “molecules with controllable movements, which can perform a task when energy is added.”
“The development of computing demonstrates how the miniaturization of technology can lead to a revolution,” the academy said in its announcement. “The 2016 Nobel Laureates in Chemistry have miniaturized machines and taken chemistry to a new dimension.”
For his part, Stoddart was awarded the prize because, the academy said, in 1991 he developed a rotaxane. He threaded a molecular ring onto a thin molecular axle and demonstrated that the ring was able to move along the axle. Among his developments based on rotaxanes are a molecular lift, a molecular muscle and a molecule-based computer chip.
Stoddart’s introduction of the mechanical bond, which has led to the fabrication of artificial molecular switches and motors, has been responsible for putting chemists at the forefront of the burgeoning field of molecular nanotechnology, with implications ranging all the way from information technology to health care.
Upon becoming the second Nobel Prize winner from Northwestern’s department of chemistry, Stoddart expressed his appreciation for the University’s academic community.
“I also share this recognition with my students, postdoctoral fellows and colleagues,” he said. “Northwestern is a special place, where everyone does science in a collaborative way. It happen
Detecting disease with only a single molecule
2025-01-03 - 2025-01
(Nanowerk News) UC Riverside scientists have developed a nanopore-based tool that could help diagnose illnesses much faster and with greater precision than current tests allow, by capturing signals from individual molecules.
Since the molecules scientists want to detect – generally certain DNA or protein molecules – are roughly one-billionth of a meter wide, the electrical signals they produce are very small and require specialized detection instruments.
“Right now, you need millions of molecules to detect diseases. We’re showing that it’s possible to get useful data from just a single molecule,” said Kevin Freedman, assistant professor of bioengineering at UCR and lead author of a paper about the tool in Nature Nanotechnology ("Negative memory capacitance and ionic filtering effects in asymmetric nanopores"). “This level of sensitivity could make a real difference in disease diagnostics.”
Freedman’s lab aims to build electronic detectors that behave like neurons in the brain and can retain memories: specifically, memories of which molecules previously passed through the sensor. To do this, the UCR scientists developed a new circuit model that accounts for small changes to the sensor’s behavior.
At the core of their circuit is a nanopore – a tiny opening through which molecules pass one at a time. Biological samples are loaded into the circuit along with salts, which dissociate into ions.
If protein or DNA molecules from the sample pass through the pore, this reduces the flow of ions that can pass. “Our detector measures the reduction in flow caused by a protein or bit of DNA passing through and blocking the passage of ions,” Freedman said.
To analyze the electrical signals generated by the ions, Freedman suggests, the system needs to account for the likelihood that some molecules may not be detected as they pass through the nanopore.
What distinguishes this discovery is that the nanopore is not just a sensor but itself acts as a filter, reducing background noise from other molecules in a sample that could obscure critical signals.
Traditional sensors require external filters to remove unwanted signals, and these filters can accidentally remove valuable information from the samples. Freedman’s approach ensures that each molecule’s signal is preserved, boosting accuracy for diagnostic applications.
Freedman envisions the device being used to develop a small, portable diagnostic kit – no larger than a USB drive – that could detect infections in the earliest stages. While today’s tests may not register infections for several days after exposure, nanopore sensors could detect infections within 24 to 48 hours. This capability would provide a significant advantage for fast-spreading diseases, enabling earlier intervention and treatment.
“Nanopores offer a way to catch infections sooner – before symptoms appear and before the disease spreads,” Freedman said. “This kind of tool could make early diagnosis much more practical for both viral infec
Detecting disease with only a single molecule
2025-01-03 - 2025-01
(Nanowerk News) UC Riverside scientists have developed a nanopore-based tool that could help diagnose illnesses much faster and with greater precision than current tests allow, by capturing signals from individual molecules.
Since the molecules scientists want to detect – generally certain DNA or protein molecules – are roughly one-billionth of a meter wide, the electrical signals they produce are very small and require specialized detection instruments.
“Right now, you need millions of molecules to detect diseases. We’re showing that it’s possible to get useful data from just a single molecule,” said Kevin Freedman, assistant professor of bioengineering at UCR and lead author of a paper about the tool in Nature Nanotechnology ("Negative memory capacitance and ionic filtering effects in asymmetric nanopores"). “This level of sensitivity could make a real difference in disease diagnostics.”
Freedman’s lab aims to build electronic detectors that behave like neurons in the brain and can retain memories: specifically, memories of which molecules previously passed through the sensor. To do this, the UCR scientists developed a new circuit model that accounts for small changes to the sensor’s behavior.
At the core of their circuit is a nanopore – a tiny opening through which molecules pass one at a time. Biological samples are loaded into the circuit along with salts, which dissociate into ions.
If protein or DNA molecules from the sample pass through the pore, this reduces the flow of ions that can pass. “Our detector measures the reduction in flow caused by a protein or bit of DNA passing through and blocking the passage of ions,” Freedman said.
To analyze the electrical signals generated by the ions, Freedman suggests, the system needs to account for the likelihood that some molecules may not be detected as they pass through the nanopore.
What distinguishes this discovery is that the nanopore is not just a sensor but itself acts as a filter, reducing background noise from other molecules in a sample that could obscure critical signals.
Traditional sensors require external filters to remove unwanted signals, and these filters can accidentally remove valuable information from the samples. Freedman’s approach ensures that each molecule’s signal is preserved, boosting accuracy for diagnostic applications.
Freedman envisions the device being used to develop a small, portable diagnostic kit – no larger than a USB drive – that could detect infections in the earliest stages. While today’s tests may not register infections for several days after exposure, nanopore sensors could detect infections within 24 to 48 hours. This capability would provide a significant advantage for fast-spreading diseases, enabling earlier intervention and treatment.
“Nanopores offer a way to catch infections sooner – before symptoms appear and before the disease spreads,” Freedman said. “This kind of tool could make early diagnosis much more practical for both viral infec
Nano-tech-based method to help deal with Parkinson's disease
2025-01-05 - 2025-01
Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) have established that nano-formulation of a hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness improved its curative properties and can be a potential therapeutic solution for Parkinson's disease.
The hormone, called Melatonin, showed improved anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties, that is preventing cell damage and preserving neuro structures and functions, when subjected to nano-formulation. Melatonin is a neurohormone secreted from the pineal gland present in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is used to treat insomnia.
Nano-formulation is the production of a drug or combination of drugs that use nanotechnology to enhance its therapeutic efficacy. They are designed to improve the delivery and performance of existing drugs by reducing toxicity, improving solubility, and increasing bioavailability, according to medical literature.
Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) have established that nano-formulation of a hormone produced by the brain in response to darkness improved its curative properties and can be a potential therapeutic solution for Parkinson's disease.
The hormone, called Melatonin, showed improved anti-oxidative and neuroprotective properties, that is preventing cell damage and preserving neuro structures and functions, when subjected to nano-formulation. Melatonin is a neurohormone secreted from the pineal gland present in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is used to treat insomnia.
Nano-formulation is the production of a drug or combination of drugs that use nanotechnology to enhance its therapeutic efficacy. They are designed to improve the delivery and performance of existing drugs by reducing toxicity, improving solubility, and increasing bioavailability, according to medical literature.
Using a biocompatible protein nano-carrier for the delivery of Melatonin to the brain, a group of researchers at INST found that the nano-Melatonin resulted in a sustained release of the hormone and improved its bio-availability.
Their studies showed that the nano-Melatonin not only improved the process to remove unhealthy cell particles and membrane, but also improved the bio-process to counteract toxicity. This has been attributed to the sustained release of Melatonin and targeted delivery to the brain, resulting in increased therapeutic efficacy as compared to bare Melatonin.
he findings, published in Applied Materials and Interfaces, a peer reviewed journal brought out by the American Chemical Society, highlight those enhanced techniques to remove damaged cell particles was crucial to reducing oxidative stress in PD. This can also be used to treat other diseases involving cellular degeneration.
Guwahati: IIT-G develops nanotechnology for advanced cholesterol and triglyceride detection
2025-01-07 - 2025-01
GUWAHATI: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, led by Prof. Dipankar Bandyopadhyay, Centre for Nanotechnology and Department of Chemical Engineering, have developed an innovative approach to improve the detection of cholesterol and triglycerides by integrating Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) on the nanoscale objects. The work utilises bimetallic nanostructures that are 10,000 times thinner than the width of a human hair for the high-fidelity detection of the biomarkers in the human blood. The findings of this research have been recently published in the high-impact journal, Biosensors and Bioelectronics, authored by Dr. Mitali Basak, Prof. Dipankar Bandyopadhyay, and Prof. Harshal B. Nemade.
The metabolic biomolecules like cholesterol and triglycerides play a pivotal role in maintaining harmonious cardiovascular health of a human body. The high (HDL) and low (LDL) density lipoproteins transport cholesterol to the cellular sites for various metabolic activities. An imbalance of LDL and HDL causes arterial plaque formation, leading to hypertension, formation of blood clots, or ischemia. On the other hand, triglycerides (TGA) transform into fatty acids and glycerol during digestion, which in turn are packaged inside lipoproteins, namely very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), for transportation to the cells. An elevated level of triglycerides leads to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease, pancreatitis, type 2 diabetes, or fatty liver.
Therefore, the timely detection of any abnormality and close monitoring of cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood are highly sought after. While traditional lipid profile tests of blood are reliable, they often require laboratory settings, are not available as a point-of-care solution, and can take time to provide results.
To address these limitations, the researchers have focused on a technique that combines nanotechnology and molecular detection, which can further be translated into a point-of-care device with enhanced diagnostic precision. The researchers employ SERS-active bimetallic nanostructures – the silver-shelled gold nanorods, which enable a plasmonic resonance hybridisation of silver and gold to produce augmented spectral resolutions as compared to pristine silver or gold nanorods. Subsequently, these bimetallic nanorods are linked to two different Raman-active receptors and immobilised with the enzymes cholesterol oxidase and lipase for concurrent detection of different concentrations of cholesterol and triglycerides. Such innovations help in the development of a platform for the ultrafast point-of-care detection kit with a higher level of detection sensitivity.
Speaking about the research, Prof. Dipankar Bandyopadhyay said, “With the recent advent of the low-cost and portable Raman spectroscopy devices, the possibility of utilisation of these sensors for the real-time monitoring of HDL, LDL, VLDL, and TGA at patients’ sites may help and mitigate the cardio
IIT Guwahati researchers develop nanoscale technology for cholesterol and triglyceride detection
2025-01-06 - 2025-01
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, led by Prof. Dipankar Bandyopadhyay from the Centre for Nanotechnology and Department of Chemical Engineering, have developed a nanoscale approach to improve the detection of cholesterol and triglycerides. By integrating Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) with bimetallic nanostructures, the team has achieved high-fidelity detection of these critical biomarkers in human blood.
The research findings, published in the journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics, are authored by Dr Mitali Basak, Prof Dipankar Bandyopadhyay, and Prof. Harshal B. Nemade. The study focuses on addressing the limitations of traditional lipid profile tests, which often require laboratory settings and are not suited for point-of-care applications.
Cholesterol and triglycerides are essential metabolic biomolecules that significantly influence cardiovascular health. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) transport cholesterol to cells for metabolic activities. An imbalance between HDL and LDL can lead to arterial plaque formation, hypertension, and other cardiovascular conditions. Similarly, triglycerides, packaged as very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), are transported to cells but, when elevated, can result in coronary artery disease, pancreatitis, and type 2 diabetes.
Timely detection and monitoring of cholesterol and triglyceride levels are critical for mitigating these health risks. The research team’s technique combines nanotechnology with molecular detection to enhance diagnostic precision and pave the way for point-of-care solutions.
The innovative approach employs SERS-active bimetallic nanostructures, specifically silver-shelled gold nanorods. These nanorods enable plasmonic resonance hybridisation of silver and gold, producing augmented spectral resolutions compared to pure silver or gold nanorods. By linking these nanorods to Raman-active receptors and immobilising them with cholesterol oxidase and lipase enzymes, the researchers achieved concurrent detection of varying concentrations of cholesterol and triglycerides.
Prof. Dipankar Bandyopadhyay highlighted the potential impact of the research: “With the recent advent of low-cost and portable Raman spectroscopy devices, there is a possibility of using these sensors for real-time monitoring of HDL, LDL, VLDL, and TGA at patients’ sites. This could help mitigate cardiovascular diseases before their onset or at an acute stage. Further, indigenising such high-precision sensors will enable the development of our own auto-analysers, which are currently imported.”
The research validated the performance of the silver-gold nanorods (Ag–Au NRs) through experiments and advanced simulations. The coupling of silver and gold enhanced localised surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties, amplifying signals 20 to 50 times more effectively than gold
nanorods alone. This enhanced light interaction makes the nanorods particularly
ETH Zurich's Photovoltaic Ceramics: A revolutionary fusion of aluminium oxide & Perovskite Nanotechnology
2025-01-08 - 2025-01
For nearly four decades, silicon-based solar cells have been the cornerstone of renewable energy. However, they come with significant drawbacks that limit their efficiency and affordability. Their installation is complex and costly, requiring substantial infrastructure. As a result, these challenges have driven researchers to develop photovoltaic ceramics—a groundbreaking material poised to revolutionise the solar energy industry.
These photovoltaic ceramics developed at ETH Zurich harness nanostructures to convert sunlight into electricity. The material comprises aluminium oxide and perovskite nanoparticles, exhibiting unique optical properties and exceptional light-capturing capabilities. These nanoparticles absorb photon energy from sunlight, generating electrons that flow through the aluminium oxide lattice, creating an electric current.
Advantages of photovoltaic ceramics
One of the standout advantages of photovoltaic ceramics is their exceptional structural stability. Unlike perovskite cells, which are prone to issues like sensitivity to temperature fluctuations, humidity, and mechanical stress, ceramics effectively overcome these challenges. The result is a highly efficient and durable solar material that heralds the next generation of renewable energy technology.
Beyond generating electricity, photovoltaic ceramics offer the potential to produce artificial solar fuels. Swiss engineers at ETH Zurich have developed solar reactors capable of creating solar fuels from sunlight and air. These reactors operate at temperatures of up to 2732°F (1500°C), utilising a thermochemical cycle to split water and CO? into syngas—a blend of gases that can be synthesised into liquid fuels such as kerosene. This breakthrough represents a significant step forward in renewable energy innovation.
These fuels are carbon-neutral, releasing only the amount of carbon dioxide that was used during their production. This makes them a highly environmentally friendly solution, particularly for industries like aviation, where they can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Development of the photovoltaic ceramic
Advancements in 3D printing technology have significantly enhanced the design of photovoltaic ceramic structures. Scientists have developed new porous ceramics for solar energy applications using low-viscosity ink with a high cerium content. These improvements have led to higher temperatures and, as a result, more efficient fuel generation.
Synhelion, the company behind this innovation, has patented the technology and aims to bring it to market. Their recent breakthroughs in using 3D printing to produce solar reactors promise to make photovoltaic ceramics more cost-effective, further solidifying their place in the energy market.
The rise of photovoltaic ceramics marks a transformative development in renewable energy. With superior efficiency, durability, and material flexibility, they have the potential to replace silicon-based solar panels, whic
Sequence-Defined DNA Polymers: New Tools for DNA Nanotechnology and Nucleic Acid Therapy
2025-01-08 - 2025-01
Structural DNA nanotechnology offers a unique self-assembly toolbox to construct soft materials of arbitrary complexity, through bottom-up approaches including DNA origami, brick, wireframe, and tile-based assemblies. This toolbox can be expanded by incorporating interactions orthogonal to DNA base-pairing such as metal coordination, small molecule hydrogen bonding, ?-stacking, fluorophilic interactions, or the hydrophobic effect. These interactions allow for hierarchical and long-range organization in DNA supramolecular assemblies through a DNA-minimal approach: the use of fewer unique DNA sequences to make complex structures.
Here we describe our research group’s work to integrate these orthogonal interactions into DNA and its supramolecular assemblies. Using automated solid phase techniques, we synthesized sequence-defined DNA polymers (SDPs) featuring a wide range of functional groups, achieving high yields in the process. These SDPs can assemble into not only isotropic spherical morphologies?such as spherical nucleic acids (SNAs)?but also into anisotropic nanostructures such as 1D nanofibers and 2D nanosheets. Our structural and molecular modeling studies revealed new insights into intermolecular chain packing and intramolecular chain folding, influenced by phosphodiester positioning and SDP sequence. Using these new self-assembly paradigms, we created hierarchical, anisotropic assemblies and developed systems exhibiting polymorphism and chiroptical behavior dependent on the SDP sequence. We could also precisely control the size of our nanofiber assemblies via nucleation-growth supramolecular polymerization and create compartmentalized nanostructures capable of precise surface functionalization.
The exquisite control over sequence, composition, and length allowed us to combine our SDPs with nanostructures including DNA wireframe assemblies such as prisms, nanotubes, and cubes to create hybrid, stimuli-responsive assemblies exhibiting emergent structural and functional modes. The spatial control of our assemblies enabled their use as nanoreactors for chemical transformations in several ways: via hybridization chain reaction within SNA coronas, through chemical conjugation within SNA cores, and through a molecular “printing” approach within wireframe assemblies for nanoscale information transfer and the creation of anisotropic “DNA-printed” polymer particles.
We have also employed our SDP nanostructures toward biological and therapeutic applications. We demonstrated that our SNAs could serve as both extrinsic and intrinsic therapeutic platforms, with improved cellular internalization and biodistribution profiles, and excellent gene silencing activities. Using SDPs incorporating hydrophobic dendrons, high-affinity and highly specific oligonucleotide binding to human serum albumin was demonstrated. These structures showed an increased stability to nuclease degradation, reduced nonspecific cellular uptake, no toxicity even at high concentratio
Watching the oscillations of an electron sea
2025-01-16 - 2025-01
(Nanowerk News) Imagine standing by a lake and throwing a stone into the water. Waves spread out in circular patterns and can reflect at obstacles and boundaries. Researchers at the University of Regensburg, in collaboration with colleagues from Milan and Pisa, have recreated this everyday phenomenon in a fascinating miniature world: They observed the propagation of waves – not on water but in an "electron sea" – using one of the fastest slow-motion cameras on the nanoscale.
Such electron seas are typically found on the surfaces of metals or materials with metallic properties. In this case, the material was graphene – a so-called two-dimensional material composed of a single layer of carbon atoms. Instead of a stone, the scientists used laser pulses, focusing them on a sharp metallic tip positioned just above the material's surface.
”The light sets the electrons in the tip in motion,” explains Simon Anglhuber from the Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics of the UR. “The resulting oscillations exert a force on the electrons in graphene. This generates a circular electron density wave that propagates through the graphene beneath the tip. The wave can reflect off the edges of the sample and travel back to the tip. These reflections can then be measured optically by reversing the previous process and converting the electron wave back into light."
By precisely moving the tip over the sample, the researchers could record a film showing the wave's oscillation at various locations over time.
High-precision analysis of wave motion
The new technique allows for the direct observation of electron wave propagation in both space and time. This was achieved with a resolution on the nanometer scale – relevant for modern semiconductor technologies – and a temporal resolution in the femtosecond range. In terms of temporal resolution, the method can be compared to an ultra-fast slow-motion camera with a frame rate of over 10 trillion frames per second (>1013 fps).
The result is a highly precise analysis of wave motion, including its speed, damping, and frequency, without requiring complex computational transformations. Notably, the researchers observed a distinction between the propagation of the wave's center of mass and the propagation of individual wave peaks and troughs. By precisely measuring these two speeds, it is possible to infer the properties of the material through which the waves are propagating.
In their experiments, the researchers compared graphene samples produced by different methods and found significant differences in wave propagation, which were linked to variations in sample quality. These findings are expected to contribute to the development of better samples for use in optoelectronic devices, such as highly sensitive light sensors.
Remarkably, the method also works for heavily damped electron waves in the so-called terahertz and mid-infrared range – a spectral region between our 5G network and visible light that has been di
Evolving Healthcare Nanotechnology Market: Trends, Projected Market Size, and Growth Prospects for 2024-2029
2025-01-16 - 2025-01
Accelerated Market Growth in Healthcare Nanotechnology Brought by Advanced Technologies and Increased Cancer Disease Prevalence
What Is The Projected Market Size Of The Global Healthcare Nanotechnology Market And Its Growth Rate?
The global healthcare nanotechnology market size was valued at $344.23 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $389.11 billion in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.0%.
o Modern advancements in nanomaterials, nanomedicine research, regulatory support, investment in R&D, and the development of nanostructured biomaterials are driving market growth.
o The healthcare nanotechnology market size is anticipated to see speedy growth in the coming years, surging to $723.18 billion in 2029, at a CAGR of 16.8%.
o The growth can be credited to developments in theranostics, nanoparticles for gene therapy, biocompatible nanomaterials, nano-enabled surgical tools, nanoscale therapeutic agents, and global health emergency preparedness.
What Is Driving The Growth In The Healthcare Nanotechnology Market?
The rising cases of cancer worldwide are expected to stimulate the growth of the healthcare nanotechnology market. Nanotechnology is an emerging field in cancer treatments, offering better personalized care for many diseases, especially cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, in 2023, approximately 1,958,310 new cancer cases and 609,820 cancer deaths are projected in the United States alone. Despite improvements in medical technology and early detection methods, these figures signal the necessity for continuous research and effective healthcare strategies in combating cancer, hence promoting the growth of the healthcare nanotechnology market.
Metastable marvel: X-rays illuminate an exotic material transformation
2025-01-17 - 2025-01
(Nanowerk News) A flash of light traps this material in an excited state indefinitely, and new experiments reveal how it happens.
A dry material makes a great fire starter, and a soft material lends itself to a sweater. Batteries require materials that can store lots of energy, and microchips need components that can turn the flow of electricity on and off.
Each material’s properties are a result of what’s happening internally. The structure of a material’s atomic scaffolding can take many forms and is often a complex combination of competing patterns. This atomic and electronic landscape determines how a material will interact with the rest of the world, including other materials, electric and magnetic fields, and light.
Scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory, as part of a multi-institutional team of universities and national laboratories, are investigating a material with a highly unusual structure — one that changes dramatically when exposed to an ultrafast pulse of light from a laser.
After the pulse, the material is caught in an exotic state outside of equilibrium, or stability. Called metastable, these states are an exciting and largely unexplored phenomenon in materials science, and they could find application in information storage and processing.
The team of scientists created the metastable state in 2019 and characterized the material before and after its transition (Nature Materials, "Optical creation of a supercrystal with three-dimensional nanoscale periodicity"). Using a combination of advanced X-ray and ultrafast laser capabilities, their recent experiments reveal the evolution of the material’s structure during the transition. The researchers captured the entire process in detail across several orders of magnitude in time, ranging from the picosecond to microsecond scales (trillionths to millionths of a second).
In particular, the team is investigating metastability in a class of materials called ferroelectrics, which play an important role in sensing and memory applications. Understanding these transitions in ferroelectrics could eventually inform the design of materials for next-generation microelectronics.
Metastable states
“Most of the materials used in technology are in equilibrium — or their lowest energy state — so that a technology can work reliably without wild variations in performance,” said Venkatraman Gopalan, professor at Pennsylvania State University and an author on the study. “However, this is very restrictive, since amazing properties may lurk just beyond equilibrium.”
The challenge is that nonequilibrium states are generally short-lived. Metastable states, however, are nonequilibrium states that persist for a very long time. Diamond, for example, is a metastable state of carbon. We say they’re forever, but over the course of billions of years, diamonds decay into graphite, a more stable state of carbon.
“It’s sort of like throwing a ball up a cliff, and instead
Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from macroalgae Hormophysa triquetra and investigation of its antibacterial activity and mechanism against pathogenic bacteria
2025-01-20 - 2025-01
In this study, brown macroalgae Hormophysta triquetra (HT) collected from the Qatari coast is used to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from its aqueous (AQ), chloroform: methanol (MCF), and ethanolic extracts (ET). The NPs are characterized using Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Gas chromatography/Mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The NPs were evaluated for their antibacterial activities by disc-diffusion method and their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were assessed. The NPs synthesized through biological process exhibited significant antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas stutzeri, and Pseudomonas fragi for all the three NPs. AQ-AgNP and ET-AgNP showed higher zones of inhibition for P. fragi with inhibitory zones of 22.5 mm and 25 mm respectively. On the other hand, MCF-AgNP showed a higher zone of inhibition for E. coli with an inhibition zone of 23.5 mm. The NPs inhibited the growth of bacterial strains by deforming their structure and forming pits. The results revealed that macroalgae HT could be used as a potential candidate to produce AgNPs and have efficient antibacterial activities against both types of bacteria i.e., Gram-positive (B. subtilis and S. aureus) and Gram-negative (E. coli, P. stutzeri, and P. fragi).
Introduction
Recently, the use of NPs has tremendously increased for different purposes. NPs are in demand due to their exclusive shapes, sizes, and a larger surface area to volume. The size of NPs varies from 1 ?m to 100 nm1. Metallic NPs are significantly studied due to their characteristic features such as large surface area, electrical, chemical, catalytic, and optical properties2,3. Generally, NPs are synthesized by physiochemical, electrochemical, photochemical, and heat evaporation methods that have limitations and disadvantages. These methods to synthesize NPs are costly and utilize hazardous chemicals that are toxic and have potential to harm environmental and biological entities2,4. Because of their harmful properties, the use of such NPs is restricted in biomedical field. In this context, Green nanotechnology can be regarded as an environmentally sustainable approach in which NPs are synthesized from living organisms such as plants, fungi, and bacteria5. This process is efficient both environmentally and economically6. Different types of NPs exist such as AgNPs, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), copper nanoparticles (CuNPs), and platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs)7,8. These biologically prepared metallic NPs are reported to alter the biological activities of different bacteria9 and hence, it could potentially serve as a candidate for treating bacterial infections/diseases. Recently, the biosynthesis of AgNPs has surged. The biosynthesis of AgNPs utilizes a specific concentration of metal salt silver nitrate (AgNO3). Through the bio
