The authors address the innovative topic of nanotechnology and nanoparticles, a multidisciplinary phenomenon important in the development of science and technology and yet not well-known. At the same time, given that nanoparticles will represent an important exposure factor for humans, it is fundamental to describe their features, benefits and potential adverse health effects. The authors therefore describe the characteristics, origins, and various methods of detecting nanoparticles. In addition, they highlight the promising implications arising from their use, especially in pharmacological research, and the still not well-known negative health effects.