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Abstract
This work seeks to explore the exciting utility of halogen based nanomedicine. Nanoparticles have been providing a singular therapeutic value for over two decades, exploiting mechanisms unavailable in conventional therapies. However, in this time limitations and concerns for nanomaterials has arisen. This has driven a broadening of the field to explore elements further and further away from Gold and Carbon. As nanosythetic procedures improve we are able to make nanomaterials that exploit the same advantages as first generation nanoparticles but also provide inherent elemental benefits such as innate therapeutic effects and targeting, not to mention the changes in physicochemical properties that come with altering elemental composition. Halogen based nanoparticles are one of these next generation nanoparticles with fundamental properties that make them an attractive nanotherapeutic options. In my time here at the University of Georgia I have worked on several projects of diverse synthesis and applications with both Fluoride and Iodide based nanoparticles. In this dissertation I will outline the some of the successes and gaps in the works of first generation nanotherapeutics. Highlighting areas that halogens might provide a unique benefit. I will then discuss Fluoride based nanotherapies and my research on immune adjuvancy and osteoarthritic treatment. I will then transition to Iodine nanoparticles and the exciting advantages they offer in radiotherapy, before discussing a combination immune-radiative nanoparticle. I will conclude with a discussion of the work being done with the other halogen elements both from our lab and the greater literature and provide my thoughts on some of the future nanoparticles and these elements have. It is my hope that my work here help to shift the paradigm of what is thought of as a feasible nanomaterial, and will serve as an inspiration or even template to continue exploring this exciting area of Halnotherapy.