Surface engineering of graphene-based nanomaterials for biomedical applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Graphene nanomaterials possess unique properties but face challenges in biomedical applications.
• Limited solubility, biocompatibility, and tumor targeting hinder clinical translation.
• Overcoming these limitations is crucial for advancing graphene's therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the critical role of surface engineering (bioconjugation) in enhancing graphene nanomaterials.
• To highlight how surface modification improves stability and functionality for biomedical applications.
• To discuss the potential of engineered graphene in cancer imaging and therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on surface engineering techniques for graphene.
• Analysis of studies demonstrating improved in vitro/in vivo performance of modified graphene.
• Examination of applications in multimodality cancer imaging and therapy delivery.

Main Results:

• Surface engineering significantly improves graphene's solubility, biocompatibility, and stability.
• Bioconjugated graphene enables advanced imaging modalities (optical, PET, MRI).
• Engineered graphene platforms support diverse therapeutic strategies, including drug/gene delivery and thermal therapies.

Conclusions:

• Surface engineering is key to unlocking the biomedical potential of graphene nanomaterials.
• Graphene-based nanoplatforms offer promising avenues for integrated cancer diagnosis and treatment.
• Further research is needed to address current challenges and optimize clinical applications.