Fluorescent nanodiamond for nanotheranostic applications

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Nanodiamonds are gaining attention for nanotheranostics due to their favorable properties like low toxicity, high carrier capacity, and unique magneto-optical characteristics.
• The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center in nanodiamonds contributes significantly to their potential in theranostic applications, offering fluorescence and magneto-optical functionalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• This review critically examines the current research on nanodiamonds as theranostic agents, focusing on their combined diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.
• The review aims to provide insights into the synthesis, properties, surface engineering, and diverse applications of nanodiamonds in theranostics.

Main Methods:

• The review covers the synthesis and properties of nitrogen-vacancy centers in nanodiamonds, including their magneto-optical principles.
• Methods for surface engineering of nanodiamonds to enhance colloidal stability and biocompatibility are discussed.
• Recent developments in nanodiamond conjugates for photo-theranostics and targeted/non-targeted theranostics are analyzed.

Main Results:

• Nanodiamonds exhibit superior properties compared to other nanomaterials for nanotheranostics.
• Surface functionalization of nanodiamonds is crucial for their in vitro and in vivo performance.
• Nanodiamond conjugates show promise in various theranostic applications, including photo-theranostics.

Conclusions:

• Fluorescent nanodiamonds with NV centers are highly promising for advanced nanotheranostics.
• Tailored nanodiamonds co-delivering diagnostic and therapeutic payloads can advance personalized medicine.
• Further research into surface engineering and biocompatibility will enhance nanodiamond applications in theranostics.