Basic Principles of Functional Materials for Biomedical Applications

Functional materials have distinctly engrossed in the field of biomedical applications playing critical role in drug delivery design. Currently, numerous materials of synthetic (metallic and nonmetallic systems) and natural origin are extensively studied to surpass the limitations of conventional approaches. In a broader context, functional nanomaterials are used to accomplish targeted delivery and reduce toxic effects. They exhibit an extensive variability of physical and chemical properties, allowing for the fine-tuning of biocompatibility, biodegradability, stimuli-responsiveness, and bioactivities. These functional materials, with different patterns and versatile functionality, are exhibiting considerable applications in diagnosis, controlled delivery of therapeutic agents, efficient adjuvants of immunotherapy, regenerative medicine, and medical devices. This book chapter provides an insight on the basic principles and applications of the revolutionized functional materials.