Biomedical Applications of Graphene Nanomaterials and Beyond

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Graphene nanomaterials possess exceptional properties: structural, optical, thermal, electrical, and mechanical.
• Their unique characteristics enable extensive research in electronics, energy, catalysis, sensing, and biomedical fields.
• Graphene-based nanomaterials are increasingly used in drug/gene delivery, biosensing, tissue engineering, bioimaging, and therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synthesis methods for graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and graphene quantum dots (GQDs).
• To highlight the diverse biomedical applications of graphene nanomaterials.
• To discuss the biocompatibility and potential risks of graphene nanomaterials in bioapplications.

Main Methods:

• Review of synthesis procedures for graphene family nanomaterials.
• Compilation of current research on biomedical applications.
• Analysis of biocompatibility and safety data.

Main Results:

• Graphene nanomaterials exhibit excellent aqueous processability, surface functionalizability, and tunable properties.
• Key applications include drug delivery, biosensing, tissue engineering, bioimaging, and photothermal/photodynamic therapies.
• Biocompatibility and potential risks are crucial considerations for clinical translation.

Conclusions:

• Graphene nanomaterials show significant promise for advanced biomedical applications.
• Further research is needed to address challenges and optimize for clinical use.
• Understanding synthesis, applications, and safety is vital for future development.