Nanowires in precision diagnostics: bridging preventive health care with nanoscale innovation

Abstract

The escalating global population and consequently rising prevalence of chronic diseases and environmental concerns have imposed unprecedented demands on health care infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need for rapid, accurate, affordable, and decentralized diagnostic solutions. In response, wearable and point-of-care (PoC) sensors have emerged as central technologies, enabling real-time health and environmental monitoring. The integration of nanomaterials, particularly 1-D nanowires, offers unparallel advancements owing to their high aspect ratios; exceptional surface-to-volume ratios; and unique electronic, optical, and mechanical properties. This article provides a comprehensive overview of nanowires, including metallic, semiconducting, metal oxide, and polymeric nanowires, and their integration into sensor settings. Nanoscale innovation, highlighting the interdisciplinary synergy between materials science and biomedical applications, also underscores how nanowire-based technologies are poised to redefine the landscape of personalized diagnostics, decentralized healthcare monitoring, and environmental monitoring.