Nanotechnology for inflammatory bowel disease management: Detection, imaging and treatment

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of intestinal disorders which cause prolonged digestive tract inflammation. The early diagnosis of IBD through the detection of its biomarkers (including tumor necrosis factor alpha, C-reactive protein, cytokines and microRNAs) and imaging agents is a challenge. Nanotechnology enabled biosensors and enhanced image contrasting chemicals for diagnosis offer promises for an affordable, early and reliable confirmation of the disease and type thereof. Moreover, engineered nanoparticles (NPs) can also be used to deliver active drug agents directly to the region of inflammation. Major advantages of the targeted drug delivery are low dosage drug requirement due to localized/guided delivery and minimal side effects to other organs by the drug. Here, we present a mini review about different engineered nanostructures (Au NPs, Graphene, Quantum dots, inorganic NPs, etc.) and plant-based nanoparticles for the detection, imaging and treatment of IBD.