Recent advances in the processing of microstructured and nanostructured materials are finding application in medical diagnosis and treatment. For example, novel building blocks for bottom-up assembly of biomaterials are being designed that will simplify development of nanostructured materials. In addition, functional biomaterials are being developed that exhibit unique interactions with proteins, nucleic acids, and other biological structures. This book brings together a diverse group of materials researchers, medical device manufacturers and clinicians to discuss the use of novel techniques for processing metals, ceramics, polymers, natural materials and composite materials used in diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. Topics include: processing of biomimetic materials; materials for bio-imaging; functional biomaterials; nanoparticles for medical diagnosis and treatment; novel materials and devices for drug delivery and biosensing; scaffolds for tissue engineering; self-assembled biomaterials; and surface modification of biomaterials.
