Biomedical Applications of Nanodiamonds: An Overview

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Applications

Background:

• Nanodiamonds are emerging nanomaterials with significant potential in the biomedical field.
• Their properties include large-scale production, inherent fluorescence (nitrogen vacancies), surface functionalization, and good biocompatibility.
• These characteristics make them attractive for various medical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse biomedical applications of nanodiamonds.
• To discuss their use in drug delivery, cancer therapy, gene/protein delivery, bone/dental implants, and antibacterial applications.
• To cover detection techniques, toxicology, and clinical/preclinical trials.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of nanodiamond applications in biomedicine.
• Compilation of data on nanodiamond properties, synthesis, and functionalization.
• Synthesis of information on detection techniques (microscopy, imaging) and toxicological studies.

Main Results:

• Nanodiamonds show promise in drug delivery, cancer therapy, and as antibacterial agents.
• Their application in bone and dental implants is also explored.
• Various imaging and detection techniques (electron microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, MRI, PET) are suitable for nanodiamonds in biological systems.

Conclusions:

• Nanodiamonds possess a unique combination of properties making them highly suitable for a wide range of biomedical applications.
• Further research and clinical trials are warranted to fully realize their therapeutic and diagnostic potential.
• Safety and efficacy studies are crucial for the translation of nanodiamonds into clinical practice.