UPSC Mains Daily Questions » Daily Answer Writing Challenge-10th August

Daily Answer Writing Challenge-10th August

Q1. Discuss the applications of nanotechnology in the field of medicine using appropriate examples. (150 Words, 10 Marks) 

Answer: 

The study of science, engineering, and technology at the nanoscale, which ranges from 1 to 100  nanometers, is known as nanotechnology. It is a branch of science and technology concerned  with the creation of ‘things’ in general, materials and devices on the atomic and molecular scale. 

Application of Nano Technology in Medicine: 

  •  Drug delivery systems: Delivery of Nano drugs like gold nanoparticles and nanorods, iron oxide  nano worms, and drug-loaded liposomes are used to treat a wide range of diseases.   
  • Stem cells: The use of nanotechnology in the advancement of regenerative medicine has opened  up a new frontier. The advancement of nanotechnology broadens the applications of stem cells  in tissue and organ regeneration. 
  •  Implantation: An increase in a material’s surface area and the ability to control surface roughness  on a nanometric scale should lead to better biological responses from osteogenic cells and  efficient mechanical contact between tissue and implant. 
  •  Imaging: Another area where tools and equipment are being developed is in vivo imaging.  Ultrasound and MRI images have better distribution and contrast when using nanoparticle  contrast agents. 
  •  Antibacterial treatment: Researchers are developing a method to kill bacteria that uses gold  nanoparticles and infrared light. This method may result in better hospital instrument cleaning.
  • Medical Instrument: Neuro-electronic interfacing is a far-off goal that entails the development  of nanodevices that will connect and link computers to the nervous system. 

Nanotechnology’s advancement and applications in medicine and pharmaceuticals have  revolutionised the twentieth century. Issues like Nano waste, Equity must be addressed to make  it use for disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. The medical application of nanoscience  has numerous potential benefits and could be beneficial to all human races.