Advances of hafnium based nanomaterials for cancer theranostics

Hafnium-based nanomaterials (Hf-NMs) have attracted the interest of numerous biomedical researchers by their unique properties. Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in the field of Hafnium-based nanomaterials, particularly in the context of cancer diagnosis and treatment. However, research in this area, especially concerning the clinical application of Hafnium-based nanomaterials, has not been thoroughly reviewed. This review will cover: 1) Classification and synthesis of Hafnium-based nanomaterials including Hafnium oxide nanomaterials, Hafnium Metal-Organic Frameworks/nanoscale coordination polymers (MOFs/NCPs); 2) Hafnium-based nanomaterials act as contrast enhancement agent for cancer imaging, and hafnium-based nanomaterials used for diagnosis in cancer liquid biopsy; 3) hafnium-based nanomaterials for cancer therapy, including hafnium-based nanomaterials for radiotherapy, hafnium-based nanomaterials for photodynamic therapy, hafnium-based nanomaterials for various combined therapy; and 4) Translation, toxicity, and safety for Hf-NMs in human and preclinical animal models. More attention will be given to the clinical translation of Hf-NMs in cancer.