This review discusses the basic concepts associated with nanotechnology and its current applications in neuroscience. The first section attempts to answer the questions concerning what nanotechnology is and what it encompasses. The second section gives an overview of the main areas of neuroscience nanotechnology research. The third section discusses some of the unique challenges encountered when applying nanotechnology to neural cells and the nervous system, and the tremendous impact this technology might have on neuroscience research. The fourth section attempts to define the roles of neuroscientists in advancing neuroscience nanotechnology. The final section speculates on the results that might derive from current applications of nanotechnology and the types of applications that might have the earliest impact in neuroscience.