Nano Basics
What is the size range of nanoparticles used in nano-regenerative medicine?
1–100 nanometers.
What is the purpose of encapsulation in nanoparticle delivery systems?
To protect fragile growth factors or genes from enzymatic breakdown.
What is the purpose of adding carbon nanotubes or nanocellulose to scaffolds?
To strengthen soft hydrogels used in bone or cartilage repair.
What are topographical cues in stem cell engineering?
Physical nanoparticle structures that influence stem cell differentiation.
How can nanoparticles help doctors track implanted tissue grafts?
By acting as MRI contrast agents for non-invasive monitoring.
Why do nanoparticles have a high surface-to-volume ratio and why is it useful?
It increases chemical and biological interactions with cells.
What does controlled release mean in nanoparticle scaffolds?
The scaffold releases therapeutic agents over a programmed period of time.
Why is nanoroughness important on scaffold surfaces?
It helps cells attach, grip, and grow more effectively.
What is gene reprogramming in regenerative medicine?
Delivering transcription factors to change or re-specialize cell functions.
By acting as MRI contrast agents for non-invasive monitoring.
Changes in pH or oxygen levels.
What natural biological structure do nanoparticles try to mimic in tissue engineering?
The extracellular matrix (ECM).
How does targeted delivery reduce side effects in treatments?
Nanoparticles attach to damaged cells using ligands and deliver drugs directly to the target area.
Which nanoparticles help restore electrical signaling in cardiac or neural tissue?
Gold nanoparticles or graphene.
Which nanoparticles allow cells to be stimulated using external magnets?
Answer: Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs).
Why is biodegradability important for future nanoparticle design?
So nanoparticles safely dissolve after healing and do not accumulate in the body.