Carbon Nanomaterials in Biomedicine: Opportunities and Toxicological Concerns

Carbon nanomaterials have garnered significant interest from researchers acROSs various disciplines, primarily due to their high specific surface area, versatile surface chemical modifications, and exceptional optical properties. Notable carbon nanomaterials include graphene, carbon nanotubes, and carbon quantum dots, each exhibiting distinct potential applications within the biomedical domain. Extensive research over the years has positioned these diverse carbon nanoparticles as promising candidates for drug delivery, cancer diagnosis and therapy, tissue engineering, and biosensing, among other applications. Nonetheless, the issue of toxicity associated with carbon nanomaterials presents a pressing challenge that necessitates resolution. Empirical studies indicate that the size, aggregation state, and surface functionalization of carbon nanotubes can influence the biotoxicity and immunotoxicity of carbon nanoparticles within biological systems, thereby impacting their clinical translation and application. To advance the application and clinical translation of carbon nanomaterials within the biomedical field, this review will focus on carbon quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, graphene nanoparticles, and other carbon-based nanomaterials. It will provide a comprehensive summary of their application progress in the biomedical sector, as well as an analysis of their biotoxicity and immunotoxic responses. This synthesis aims to facilitate the clinical translation and application of carbon nanomaterials.