Biocompatibility/Cytocompatibility Of Nanostructured Materials

Nanostructured materials are materials engineered on the nanoscale, typically less than 100 nanometers in size. Due to their small size, nanostructured materials possess unique physical, chemical, and biological properties that are not found in their macro-scale counterparts. The biocompatibility and cytocompatibility of these materials is of particular interest due to their potential for use in medical and healthcare applications. Biocompatibilmity is the ability of a material to perform its intended function without causing adverse biological effects. This includes the absence of toxic effects, irritation, inflammation, or any other adverse biological response. To assess the biocompatibility of nanostructured materials, they must be tested in vitro and in vivo. In vitro tests involve exposing cells to the material in a laboratory setting. In vivo tests involve exposing the material to a living organism, such as a mouse, to determine its biocompatibility. Cytocompatibility is the ability of a material to be compatible with cells, specifically the ability of a material to support the growth and function of cells. Cytocompatibility is important for medical and healthcare applications, as it allows cells to interact with the material without causing any adverse effects. To assess the cytocompatibility of nanostructured materials, they must be tested in vitro and in vivo. In vitro tests involve exposing cells to the material in a laboratory setting, while in vivo tests involve exposing the material to a living organism, such as a mouse.