The biophysics of nanomaterials in living systems

It is no exaggeration that nanotechnology has reshaped the landscape of modern science and technology and captured our imagination through the development of super tough fibers, plasmon waveguides, carbon nanotube radios, imaging contrast enhancers, and a myriad of sensory and novel therapeutics. As with any new major development in the history of science, stem cell research and genetically modified crops being the two foremost, nanotechnology has also evoked a great deal of debate especially regarding its potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. Science fiction has gone so far as to predict “gray goo” piling on this already challenged planet and evil “nanobots” patrolling over human establishment. Understanding nanomaterials from cradle to grave best imitates Gauguin’s famous line “Where do they come from? What are they? Where are they going?”