Graphene in therapeutics delivery: Problems, solutions and future opportunities

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Graphene-based nanomaterials are explored for in vitro and in vivo therapeutic agent delivery.
• Significant challenges hinder the safe and effective clinical translation of graphene therapeutics.
• Graphene's interactions with biological components (solutes, proteins, cells) critically influence its behavior and toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on using graphene for therapeutic delivery.
• To discuss favorable and unfavorable interactions of graphene in biological systems.
• To identify challenges and future directions for graphene in drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental studies on graphene in therapeutics.
• Analysis of graphene-biomolecule and graphene-cell interactions.
• Examination of modification strategies for graphene-based delivery systems.

Main Results:

• Graphene's biological interactions are complex and significantly affect its efficacy and safety.
• Graphene modification and combination with other molecules can mitigate adverse effects.
• Graphene is emerging as a component in multifunctional, tailored delivery vehicles.

Conclusions:

• Understanding and modifying graphene's biological interactions are crucial for therapeutic applications.
• Further research is needed to overcome challenges for clinical development.
• Graphene holds potential as a versatile platform for advanced drug delivery systems.