Emerging Trends of Nanotechnology towards Picotechnology: Energy and Biomolecules

Abstract

In nature, metal oxide particles display their existence at the level of picomolecules in solution state and bioactive states in the body. We present evidence of picomolar behavior of molecules different than nanomolar behavior of particles. These particles can be encapsulated in polymers and can be functionalized with protein, nucleotides, and drugs to develop as smart intracellular targeting pico-devices. The preparation technique and physiological conditions decide the size and functionality of these pico-carrier devices. Their usable success rate, feasibility and potentials are yet to be proven or we do not know. The major difference between nanodevices and pico-devices is their intermolecular and intramolecular thermodynamics in medium and their molecular conformational interaction with molecular assembly in cytoarchitecture of the neurofilament, actin-myosin, microtubule proteins. Pico-carrier devices can be presumed as potential spears without interacting with host signal transduction and immunoprotection. In conclusion, the ultrafine size of newer picotechnology products may be better suited and easier to functionalize for design of particle based picodrugs, picochemicals, and pico-targeting molecules.