Well Dispersion of Nanoparticles by Surface Modification: Strategies and Biomedical Applications

Nanoparticles tend to aggregate in physiological environments, severely limiting their biomedical applications. This review systematically summarizes the research progress and biomedical applications of three core strategies via surface modification (covalent modification, coordinating modification, and hydrophobic interaction-mediated modification) in enhancing the dispersion stability of nanoparticles. Covalent modification constructs stable interfaces via chemical bonds, coordinating modification optimizes dispersibility while endowing targeting/responsive functions, and hydrophobic interaction-mediated modification achieves efficient dispersion through noncovalent self-assembly. All three strategies inhibit aggregation by regulating nanoparticle surface properties, supporting applications in biomedical imaging, tumor therapy, and antibacterial/anti-infective treatments. Finally, future directions are prospected, focusing on multifunctional synergy, precision and intelligence, clinical translation, and interdisciplinary integration, providing references for the development of high-performance biomedical nanomaterials.