Knowledge of the different types of inorganic nanoparticles of biological interest, of their properties and of the most used synthesis and functionalization strategies. Knowledge of the main medical and biomedical applications of the nanoparticles, learn to identify for each application the most suitable nanomaterial.
Course Prerequisites
This course requires basic chemical knowledge (inorganic and organic chemistry) and basic knowledge of biochemistry.
Teaching Methods
Classes with power point presentations, which will be available on KIRO after the lesson. The course will be theoretical, with no practical experiments.
Assessment Methods
Written examination focused on the program of the whole course (modules 1 and 2). The exam will evaluate the student’s ability to debate on all the topics of the course, merging the knowledge acquired in the two modules.
Texts
The teaching material (slides and research papers useful for exam preparation) will be available on KIRO. The course has no suggested textbook.
Contents
Syntesis, shape control, coating of: noble metal nanoparticles (Au, Ag, Pt, Cu); iron oxide nanoparticles (FexOy); silica nanoparticles; p-block nanoparticles (quantum dots), coordination polymers. Properties and technological applications: loading, transport and delivery of drugs, photothermal and magnetothermal effect, superparamagnetism, antibacterial and antibiofilm effect. Biomedical application and structure: relation between shape / charge / size / coating of inorganic nanoparticles and their cell internalization (and nucleus penetration); biodistribution and excretion; toxicity.
