Liquid metal biomaterials for biomedical imaging.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Medical Imaging
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Liquid metals (LMs) possess unique properties like flexibility and conductivity, making them promising for biomedical applications.
• Their tunable properties (electrical, thermal, mechanical, chemical) offer significant advantages over traditional materials.
• LMs present novel opportunities in extending soft metals into biomedical sciences, especially for imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the preparation and characteristics of various liquid metal-based biomaterials.
• To analyze the biocompatibility and toxicity of LM biomaterials in biomedical contexts.
• To detail the applications of LMs in diverse medical imaging modalities.

Main Methods:

• Classification of LM-based biomaterials into four categories: micro/nanoparticles, surface-modified droplets, inorganic composites, and organic polymer composites.
• Evaluation of biocompatibility through body weight measurement, histology, and blood biochemistry tests.
• Detailed review of LM applications in X-ray, CT, MRI, photoacoustic, and molecular imaging.

Main Results:

• LM biomaterials can be prepared in various forms, including nanoparticles and composites.
• Toxicity assessments indicate varying biocompatibility profiles depending on LM type and modification.
• LMs demonstrate significant potential across multiple medical imaging techniques, offering enhanced contrast and functionality.

Conclusions:

• Liquid metals represent a versatile class of materials with tunable properties for advanced biomedical applications.
• Careful consideration of biocompatibility and toxicity is crucial for safe clinical translation.
• LMs hold substantial promise for revolutionizing medical imaging, with ongoing research addressing current challenges and exploring future opportunities.