American Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics www.pubicon.net Original Article Use of Nanotechnology in Ophthalmology Abdul Waris, Gargi Nagpal* and Naheed Akhtar VR Surgeon & faculty, Institute of Ophthalmology, Aligarh, India ABSTRACT Nanotechnology is an emerging concept which soon will be an epitome in the field of science and technology. It uses molecules in the order of nanometers to penetrate and has proven its mettle in space, medicine and various avenues of science. Various aspects of treatment and diagnosis in ophthalmology are expected to benefit from this technology in the near future. Nanotechnology will not only revolutionize our approach to current therapeutic challenges, but also enable us to address currently unsolvable problems. Keywords: Nanotechnology, Implantable materials, Nanoceria, Trigger-fish contact lens, Vitrasert, Illuvien, I-vation. INTRODUCTION Nanotechnology involves creation and use of materials and devices at the size scale of intracellular structures and molecules and involves systems and constructed in the order of <100 nm. 1 To put that into perspective, a human hair is 10,000 nm to 20,000 nm in diameter, an erythrocyte is 7,000 nm wide, 1,2 a DNA strand is of the order of 2 nm in diameter and most proteins of the soils around 10nm, hence, nanotechnology exists in nature. Other naturally occurring nanomotors include kinesin and actin, which are both essential for muscle movement. 3 Still for better understanding, comparing nanometer to a meter is like marble to earth. Research and the eventual application of this budding technology needs to be shared among many areas of science. In health care, the twigs of nanotechnology are being targeted at presymptomatic diagnosis and management, which ought to modify and broaden our perspective and outlook regarding various yet unsolvable medical queries. 3 DISCUSSION Nanotechnology aims at “comprehensive monitoring, control, construction, repair, defense and improvement of human biological systems at the molecular level”. The eye is uniquely suitable as a target for nanotechnology in the form of Biopharmaceuticals (drug delivery), implantable materials (tissue regeneration scaffolds, bioresorbable materials), implantable devices (IOP monitors, glaucoma drainage valves), and diagnostic tools (genetic testing, imaging, IOP monitoring). Nanotechnology also aims at development of regenerative medicine (replacement and improvement of cells, tissues and organs), ultrahigh resolution in vivo imaging, microsensors and feedback Address for Correspondence VR Surgeon & faculty, Institute of Ophthalmology, Aligarh, India. E-mail: garginagpal @rediffmail.com