Nanomedicine: Perspective and Promises

This book is dedicated to the topic of molecular imaging and therapeutics, where we confer the role of functional nanoarchitecture. Over the past two decades, this multi disciplinary area of research has generated great vigor, showing high potential for clinical translational [1-4]. Innovation in chemistry, molecular biology, and engineering has shaped unique prospects for cross-disciplinary work in early detection and treatment of a disease at the molecular and cellular levels, enabling unparalleled safety and specicity [4-6]. The unprecedented potential of nanoparticles in imaging and drug delivery has been well proven [6-9]. Myriad progress has been made toward the development of dened nanostructure for performing multiple functions (e.g., imaging and therapy). Biological and biophysical obstacles are overcome by the incorporation of targeting ligands, contrast materials, and therapeutics into the nanoplatform, which allows for theranostic applications [10-12].