Antimicrobial and drug delivery aspects of nanocomposites

An efficient drug delivery system is the one in which drugs can be transported specifically to the target site in a protected and reproducible manner. Nanotechnology is a versatile field that can play a vital role in almost all walks of life, like chemistry, physics, biomedical, engineering, marine, etc. This chapter discusses the design of drug carriers by using various nanomaterials. Their mode of action and delivery is highlighted with respect to retention in the body. Various problems encountered in the delivery of drugs can be solved by using a specific nanomaterial. Deadly diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and fungal and bacterial infections can be treated with much ease and efficacy with these functionally fabricated nanomaterials loaded with drugs. In spite of the multifunctional use of nanomaterial in various fields, it poses toxicity to humans too. The main aim of this chapter is to draw attention to all aspects of nanomaterials as a diagnostic tool to deliver therapeutic agents in a systematic manner at target sites, including its future fate.