Synthesis methods, structure, and recent trends of ZIF-8-based materials in the biomedical field

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) is a highly porous material.
• ZIF-8 possesses remarkable structural properties and high drug-loading capacity.
• These characteristics make ZIF-8 an exceptional candidate for advanced drug delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review recent developments in ZIF-8 synthesis techniques.
• To critically discuss innovative synthesis approaches, including green solvents and advanced methods (microwave-, ultrasound-assisted).
• To explore the multifunctional applications of ZIF-8-based biomaterials in biomedical engineering.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on ZIF-8 synthesis and applications.
• Critical analysis of innovative synthesis techniques (green solvents, microwave-, ultrasound-assisted).
• Exploration of ZIF-8 applications in antibacterial/anticancer therapies, drug delivery, bone tissue engineering, biosensing, and bioimaging.

Main Results:

• ZIF-8 synthesis has seen advancements with green solvents and assisted methods.
• ZIF-8 demonstrates potential in diverse biomedical applications, including pH-sensitive and glucose-responsive systems.
• Innovations include ZIF-8 scaffolds for bone regeneration.

Conclusions:

• ZIF-8 is a promising biomaterial for various biomedical applications.
• Critical challenges such as Zn(ii) ion release, cytotoxicity, and biocompatibility need to be addressed.
• Overcoming these hurdles is crucial for the broader adoption of ZIF-8 in medicine.