Functionalized ZnO-Based Nanocomposites for Diverse Biological Applications: Current Trends and Future Perspectives

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Toxicology

Background:

• Zinc oxide (ZnO)-based nanostructures possess diverse properties making them suitable for various applications.
• ZnO nanoparticles exhibit unique electronic, optical, catalytic, and antimicrobial properties, along with good biocompatibility and surface chemistry.
• There is a growing need for advanced, cost-effective biomedical devices due to rising healthcare demands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synthetic approaches for producing multifunctional nano-ZnO particles for biomedical applications.
• To explore recent advancements in ZnO-based nano-biomaterials for biosensing, bioimaging, tissue regeneration, drug delivery, vaccines, and immunotherapy.
• To discuss the toxicity mechanisms and neurotoxic potential of nano-ZnO particles.

Main Methods:

• Review of chemical and green synthesis methods for nano-ZnO.
• Analysis of nanoparticle conjugation strategies to enhance biomedical capacity and reduce toxicity.
• Examination of recent literature on ZnO-based nano-biomaterials in various biomedical fields.

Main Results:

• Various synthesis methods yield multifunctional nano-ZnO particles with tunable properties.
• Conjugation of ZnO nanoparticles can improve their biomedical efficacy and safety profile.
• ZnO-based nanomaterials show promise in diverse biomedical applications including diagnostics and therapeutics.

Conclusions:

• Nano-ZnO particles offer significant potential for innovative biomedical applications.
• Further research into synthesis, functionalization, and toxicity is crucial for clinical translation.
• Understanding nano-ZnO toxicity, particularly neurotoxicity, is essential for safe therapeutic use.