[Nanotechnology can improve diagnostics].

Nanotechnology can improve diagnostics The unique properties of nanoparticles make them tailorable into diagnostic agents on a molecular level, which allow more sensitive and precise in vitro diagnostics and in vivo imaging. While in vitro applications already have impact on diagnostics, in vivo use remains challenging due to difficulties in preparing nanoparticles with acceptable properties regarding toxicity, specific target accumulation and degradation. This article describes the innovative work of developing such platforms, and concludes that while nanotechnology-based diagnostics and imaging are still scarce at the clinical level, the rapid development of many new concepts, devices and processes that are now in the laboratory pipeline promises significant impact in the near future.