Plant virus-based materials for biomedical applications: Trends and prospects.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Plant Virology

Background:

• Plant virus nanoparticles (VNPs) possess unique properties making them suitable for biomedical applications.
• These nanoparticles offer precisely shaped, multivalent protein surfaces for functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential and limitations of using plant-derived VNPs in medical technology and healthcare.
• To review the integration of chemistry, biomaterials science, molecular plant virology, and process engineering for VNP applications.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of VNPs with contrast agents, drugs, peptides, and synthetic molecules.
• Exploitation of viral building blocks for self-organization into hierarchical 2D and 3D structures.
• Conversion of VNPs into biocompatible and biodegradable units.

Main Results:

• VNPs serve as efficient carrier templates and targeting vehicles for various biomedical uses.
• Applications include vaccination, biosensing, tissue engineering, drug delivery, and theranostics.
• High yields of VNPs are harvestable from plants, facilitating commercialization.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived VNPs present significant potential for advancing medical technology and healthcare.
• Further research and development are integrating multiple scientific disciplines for optimized VNP utilization.
• VNPs are nearing commercialization for diverse biomedical applications.