Revolutionizing cancer treatment: The multifaceted role of graphene oxide in modern oncology

The rising global incidence and mortality rates of cancer underscore the persistent reliance on chemotherapy as the primary treatment modality. Despite its widespread use, challenges such as chemotherapy resistance and the absence of tumor-specific targeting have limited its efficacy, thereby necessitating the development of more effective therapeutic strategies in clinical practice. In this context, nanomaterials have opened up new avenues for cancer therapy. Among these, nanoparticles like graphene oxide (GO) exhibit significant potential due to their large specific surface area, high biocompatibility, abundance of oxygen-containing functional groups, and exceptional biocompatibility. This review systematically summarizes the intrinsic antitumor properties of GO and emphasizes its role in enhancing the delivery and therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents, gene drugs, and natural compounds through multiple mechanisms. It further highlights GO's potential in synergistic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, tumor monitoring platforms, and cancer vaccine development, while also discussing the manufacturing challenges that limit clinical translation, aiming to provide theoretical guidance and innovative strategies for its future application in oncology.