[Nano-coatings: principle, range of applications, threats].

Nano-technology, which already has entered many areas of our everyday life, represents one of the key technologies of the 21st century. Nano-coatings play an important role in many industrial processes (e. g. as wear-protective coatings). They are furthermore of increasing importance in medical technology (e. g. for biocompatible functionalization of medical implants). This article gives a short overview over principles, applications, production methods and risks of nano-coatings in medicine. Furthermore the consequences for clinicians and physicians will be discussed.