Abstract
Nanomedicine is the medical application of nanotechnology and related research. Application of nanotechnology in the research of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) may be an important direction towards its modernization. This paper reviews literatures on nano-TCM which were published in the past decade. In accordance with the different carriers, four types of nano-TCM, nanoliposome, solid lipid nanoparticle, nanocapsule and polymer micelle are analyzed. Most nano-TCMs are performed on nanoliposome for its easy preparation, convenience for application and multi-purpose administrations. Because of their characteristics of slow-release, targeting, toxicity etc., solid lipid nanoparticles are used mainly for the package of insoluble drugs as carriers for intravenous injection or local administration for the purpose of targeted or controlled release. Carrying drugs by natural or synthetic polymer material, nanocapsules can promote the drug through the blood-brain barrier and enhance drug's bioavailability. Polymer micelle, a new type of nanoparticle developed in recent years, can increase the solubility of hydrophobic drugs in body fluid and extend drug duration. Nanotechnology is conducive to the development of Chinese medicine in many ways, but there are many problems that need to be solved. Application of nanotechnology in the complex system of TCM is still in the initial stage, innovations of theory and technology are worth the wait to promote the nano-TCM into the practical stage.
Keywords: Nanotechnology, nano-TCM, nanoliposome, solid lipid nanoparticle, nanocapsule, polymer micelle, efficacy
Call for Papers in Thematic Issues
Role of nanomaterials in fabrication of coatings, Machining and Joining
The application of nanoscience has brought about a revolution in the field of mechanical engineering by providing novel materials, boosting manufacturing processes, and generating cutting-edge products. The purpose of this special issue is to investigate the enormous impact that nanoscience has had on mechanical engineering, with a particular emphasis on ...read more
Advanced Inorganic Nanocomposites and Their Emerging Applications
This special issue collection will highlight developments on the recent trends about the synthesis of metal oxides, nanoclusters, biomaterials, 2D nanomaterials, nanocrystals, nanocomposites, etc. and their applications in electrochemical systems, tissue regeneration, energy storage and harvesting, sensors, etc. The novelty of the methods in the chemical synthesis and their characterizations, ...read more
Applicability of Nanotechnology for Performance Enhancement of Clean Energy Technologies
Population growth, industrialization, and improvement in living quality would lead to further increase in energy demand in near future. Regarding the disadvantages of fossil fuels such as fluctuations in their price, high emissions of greenhouse gases and restriction of their sources, it is crucial to use and exploit alternative energy ...read more
Graphene and 2D Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
This thematic issue will discuss the recent advances in graphene-based nanomaterials for different energy technologies. Graphene possesses a high surface area, and stable structure and exhibits many interesting electronic, optical, and mechanical properties due to its 2D crystal structure. Graphene is of both fundamental interest and suitable for a wide ...read more
Related Books
Nanoscale Field Effect Transistors: Emerging Applications
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications Part II
Nanoelectronics Devices: Design, Materials, and Applications (Part I)
Role of Nanotechnology in Cancer Therapy
Synthesis and Applications of Semiconductor Nanostructures
Pathways to Green Nanomaterials: Plants as Raw Materials, Reducing Agents and Hosts
Applications of Nanomaterials in Medical Procedures and Treatments
Synthesis of Nanomaterials
Nanobiotechnology: Principles and Applications
Bio-Inspired Nanotechnology
19