The convergence of biotechnology and nanotechnology: Why here, why now?

Nanotechnology offers a promise to revolutionise the life sciences because it equips biologists with tools and materials that can interact directly with the biomolecules that they study on a daily basis. Both biotechnology and nanotechnology have matured to the point that their convergence offers opportunities for novel solutions to unmet needs in biology. This paper explores the developments that have led to this convergence.