Innovative Nanomaterials in Precision Oncology: Carbon Quantum Dots Driving Cancer Immunotherapy

Precision oncology aims to deliver individually tailored interventions in clinical management of cancers, which remain a global health challenge. Cancer immunotherapy is a field of precision oncology that can benefit from nanotechnology and nanomaterials. Nanotechnology, material science, and drug delivery fields have thus begun converging with precision oncology. However, advances in nanomaterials are not adequately covered in this field. The present expert review aims to address this gap in biomedical literature. Carbon quantum dots (CQDs), a new-generation nanomaterial, have attracted vast interest owing to their unique properties, including notable electrical conductivity, chemical stability, eco-friendly behavior, and strong fluorescence. Their high versatility and low-cost synthesis have replaced conventional quantum dots for about a decade. Recent advances demonstrate CQDs' potential in targeted drug delivery, bioimaging, and immunomodulation for cancer treatment. Their physicochemical properties enable precise tumor targeting while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. CQDs can be functionalized with biomolecules to enhance tumor specificity and cellular uptake, making them ideal carriers for chemotherapeutic agents. Their intrinsic photoluminescence facilitates real-time monitoring of drug distribution. Emerging evidence suggests CQDs can stimulate immune responses by modulating tumor microenvironments. Despite promising applications, challenges remain in synthesis standardization and toxicological profiling. Future studies should focus on optimizing CQD formulations and minimizing cytotoxicity to maximize their therapeutic potential, paving the way for safer, more effective, and personalized treatments for precision oncology and nanomedicine.