Nanoparticles Improve the Efficacy of Medicines

Prevalence of cancer and other chronic diseases has boosted research activities in healthcare sector. Researchers are keen on discovering treatments that can cure diseases at cellular level. Nanoparticles can safely transport drugs to the designated location without being affected by temperatures within the body.

Metal & Metal Oxide Nanoparticles

Nanoparticles (NP) are the minute molecules between the ranges of 100 to 2500 nanometers. They gained prominence in the healthcare sector due to their use in targeted therapies. Nanoparticles are used in customized treatments for direct elimination of cancerous cells. Success of these molecules has encouraged research activities to improve the efficacy of drugs.

Metal oxide NPs have anti-corrosive and anti-bacterial properties. Hence, there is a high demand for them from the healthcare sector. They are also known as nanopowders or nanocrystals. Government-backed initiatives like the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) support research & development activities. Rising drug-resistant diseases and various cancers are buttressing the need of these molecules.

Immune Modifying Nanoparticles

Cour Pharmaceutical Development Company, a US-based corporation, has published a study regarding the efficacy of its nanoparticle therapy. According to this study, animals injected with Immune Modifying Nanoparticles (IMP) showcased a reduction in the size of heart lesions. Further studies can determine potential benefits of IMP for humans.

NPs for Dental Health and Cancer Treatment

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Dental Medicine and University of Rochester have observed the potential of NPs in fighting tooth decay and plaque. Farnesol, an antibacterial agent can be encased in nanocages to target dental plaque. Similarly, researchers at the University of Missouri are attempting to prove the efficiency of gold NPs in treating prostate cancer in dogs. The resulting success of this study can be then tested on humans.

Market Overview

The worldwide nanoparticles - metal & metal oxides in healthcare market can reach USD 81 billion by 2025, according to Grand View Research, Inc. It is projected to register a significant CAGR over the forecast period (2014 to 2025). High approval rate and versatile applications can propel the growth in the near future.

In 2016, gold nanoparticles dominated the overall market on account of revenue due to its applications in human therapeutics. Better compatibility and low toxicity of gold NPs can further boost their demand in the forthcoming years. In-vivo imaging emerged as the largest application in 2016. Use of Au3Cu1 nanoshells in magnetic resonance (MR) angiography is the key driving factor. Notable market players are AstraZeneca, Immunolight LLC, Merck KGaA, and nanoComposix.

Read more at:
http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/nanoparticles-metal-oxides-in-healthcare-market