Current investigations into carbon nanotubes for biomedical application

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes (CNTs), are increasingly investigated for biomedical applications.
• CNTs possess unique properties making them potentially suitable for various medical uses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biomedical applications of CNTs, including cellular functions, apatite formation, tissue engineering scaffolds, drug/gene delivery, and biosensors.
• To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of CNTs as biomaterials, focusing on cytotoxicity and biodegradation.
• To explore strategies like chemical functionalization to enhance CNT utility and address limitations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of research on carbon nanotubes in biomedical fields.
• Analysis of studies covering cellular interactions, material properties, and application-specific performance.
• Synthesis of findings related to functionalization, biodegradation, and toxicological aspects.

Main Results:

• CNTs exhibit potential in cellular functions, apatite formation, tissue engineering scaffolds, drug/gene delivery, and biosensors.
• Chemical functionalization can improve CNT properties, mitigating issues like cytotoxicity and enhancing biocompatibility.
• The unbiodegradable nature of CNTs may be leveraged for in vivo monitoring or biosensing applications.

Conclusions:

• CNTs are versatile biomaterials with significant potential in tissue engineering and diagnostics.
• Addressing challenges through chemical modification and further research into biodegradation and toxicology is crucial for clinical translation.
• Future research should explore synergistic use with other biomaterials and advanced applications like in vivo monitoring.