Abstract
Currently, nanotechnology is the most promising science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nanoscale (nm), which is used in several sectors. Collectively, nanotechnology is causing a new industrial revolution, and nano-based products are becoming increasingly important for the global market and economy. The interest in nanomaterials has been strongly augmented during the last two decades, and this fact can be easily evaluated by considering the number of studies present in the literature. In November 2024, they accounted for 764,279 experimental studies developed in the years 2009-2024. During such a period, our group contributed to the field of applicative nanotechnology with several experimental and review articles, which we hope could have relevantly enhanced the knowledge of the scientific community. In this new publication, an exhaustive overview regarding the main types of developed nanomaterials, the characterization techniques, and their applications has been discussed. Particular attention has been paid to nanomaterials employed for the enhancement of bioavailability and delivery of bioactive molecules and to those used for ameliorating traditional food packaging. Then, we briefly reviewed our experimental studies on the development of nanoparticles (NPs), dendrimers, micelles, and liposomes for biomedical applications by collecting inherent details in a reader-friendly table. A brief excursus about our reviews on the topic has also been provided, followed by the stinging question of nanotoxicology. Indeed, although the application of nanotechnology translates into a great improvement in the properties of non-nanosized pristine materials, there may still be a not totally predictable risk for humans, animals, and the environment associated with an extensive application of NPs. Nanotoxicology is a science in rapid expansion, but several sneaky risks are not yet fully disclosed. So, the final part of this study discusses the pending issue related to the possible toxic effects of NPs and their impact on customers' acceptance in a scenario of limited knowledge.