Nanoparticle-related heat transfer phenomenon and its application in biomedical fields

Recent years have seen intensive interest in the synthesis and application of nanomaterials in different fields extending from energy to biomedicine sectors. Many biomedical applications involve delivering biomodified nanoparticles to malignant cells and rapidly heating nanoparticles with an external source such as laser, ultrasound, or an electromagnetic wave to produce a therapeutic thermal effect or to release drugs. The interaction of nanoparticles with the external source and the subsequent heating effect are fundamental for the successful deployment of these novel techniques. This study reviews nanoparticle-related heat transfer phenomenon and its medical applications. Some initial theoretical and experimental studies are conducted to reveal the potentials of this exciting field. The combination of gold nanoparticles with ultrasound irradiation or electromagnetic waves in the radiofrequency spectrum has been shown to be a promising strategy for future medical applications. Further understanding of the heating of nanoparticles in situ and thermal response at the nanoscale, which is essential for successful medical applications, call for a cross-disciplinary collaboration among engineers, scientists, and clinicians.