Zinc associated nanomaterials and their intervention in emerging respiratory viruses:Journey to the field of biomedicine and biomaterials

Respiratory viruses represent a severe public health risk worldwide, and the research contribution to tackle the current pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 is one of the main targets among the scientific community. In this regard, experts from different fields have gathered to confront this catastrophic pandemic. This review illustrates how nanotechnology intervention could be valuable in solving this difficult situation, and the state of the art of Zn-based nanostructures are discussed in detail. For virus detection, learning from the experience of other respiratory viruses such as influenza, the potential use of Zn nanomaterials as suitable sensing platforms to recognize the S1 spike protein in SARS-CoV-2 are shown. Furthermore, a discussion about the antiviral mechanisms reported for ZnO nanostructures is included, which can help develop surface disinfectants and protective coatings. At the same time, the properties of Zn-based materials as supplements for reducing viral activity and the recovery of infected patients are illustrated. Within the scope of noble adjuvants to improve the immune response, the ZnO NPs properties as immunomodulators are explained, and potential prototypes of nanoengineered particles with metallic cations (like Zn(2+)) are suggested. Therefore, using Zn-associated nanomaterials from detection to disinfection, supplementation, and immunomodulation opens a wide area of opportunities to combat these emerging respiratory viruses. Finally, the attractive properties of these nanomaterials can be extrapolated to new clinical challenges

Zinc associated nanomaterials and their intervention in emerging respiratory viruses: Journey to the field of biomedicine and biomaterials.

Respiratory viruses represent a severe public health risk worldwide, and the research contribution to tackle the current pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 is one of the main targets among the scientific community. In this regard, experts from different fields have gathered to confront this catastrophic pandemic. This review illustrates how nanotechnology intervention could be valuable in solving this difficult situation, and the state of the art of Zn-based nanostructures are discussed in detail. For virus detection, learning from the experience of other respiratory viruses such as influenza, the potential use of Zn nanomaterials as suitable sensing platforms to recognize the S1 spike protein in SARS-CoV-2 are shown. Furthermore, a discussion about the antiviral mechanisms reported for ZnO nanostructures is included, which can help develop surface disinfectants and protective coatings. At the same time, the properties of Zn-based materials as supplements for reducing viral activity and the recovery of infected patients are illustrated. Within the scope of noble adjuvants to improve the immune response, the ZnO NPs properties as immunomodulators are explained, and potential prototypes of nanoengineered particles with metallic cations (like Zn2+) are suggested. Therefore, using Zn-associated nanomaterials from detection to disinfection, supplementation, and immunomodulation opens a wide area of opportunities to combat these emerging respiratory viruses. Finally, the attractive properties of these nanomaterials can be extrapolated to new clinical challenges

Catalyzing innovation:Exploring iron oxide nanoparticles - Origins, advancements, and future application horizons

Iron oxides, including wustite (FeO), hematite (α-Fe2O3), maghemite (γ-Fe2O3), and magnetite (Fe3O4), are remarkable nanomaterials. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) at the nanoscale display super-paramagnetic, high surface area, and biocompatibility, making them ideal for diverse applications. Their influence on matter behavior, interaction with light, electricity, magnetism, and non-toxicity in biological systems make them promise in biomedicine. This review covers IONPs' properties, emphasizing biological, chemical, and physical synthesis methods, including doping, coating, and encapsulation. In addition, advancing green synthesis approaches for IONPs are highlighted. We explore their applications in medicine, environmental science, and pollution solutions, emphasizing their merits. Examining various IONPs and synthesis routes, we underscore their role in addressing global challenges. IONPs versatility, scalability, and eco-friendliness position them to transform research and uphold ethical standards. This review unveils the transformative potential of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (IONPs), emphasizing their unique attributes—biocompatibility, magnetic responsiveness, and tunable surface functionalities. IONPs are pivotal in targeted drug delivery, imaging, hyperthermia therapy, and biosensing. The comprehensive exploration spans biomedical, agricultural, antioxidant, and photocatalytic applications, showcasing IONPs versatility in advancing innovative solutions across diverse domains. Our collective efforts aim to revolutionize medical treatments, combat environmental issues, and foster a sustainable future while advocating responsible research and ethics.</p