Biomimicry at the nanoscale - a review of nanomaterials inspired by nature
Deepa Mundekkad, Anjali R. Mallya
Abstract
Biomimetic nanomaterials and nanosystems leverage nature's designs and mechanisms to develop innovative solutions in various fields, including medicine, environmental science, and energy systems. This review explores the fundamental principles of biomimicry in nanotechnology, highlighting the rich diversity of bioinspired materials, such as nanocomposites and polymers. While examining their applications, ranging from targeted drug delivery and regenerative medicine to efficient environmental remediation and energy conversion., the review also focuses on the characterization methods that enable the understanding of these materials at the nanoscale. It also addresses the current challenges, such as scalability, biological compatibility, and safety. Finally, the review outlines future directions for research, emphasizing the integration of advanced computational techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance the design and application of biomimetic nanomaterials. By bridging biological intuition with technological innovation, biomimetic nanotechnology holds great promise for addressing complex global challenges.