Recent advances in MXenes for healthcare applications: bioimaging, therapeutics, biosensing, and tissue engineering

The emergence of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, collectively known as MXenes, with the general formula M_n+1X_nT_x, has sparked significant interest for a wide range of biomedical applications. Owing to their ultrathin lamellar structure, high surface area, excellent physicochemical properties, including remarkable electronic conductivity, PCE, antibacterial activity, and biocompatibility, MXenes have emerged as promising candidates for the development of next-generation flexible biomedical devices. These materials offer unique opportunities for multifunctional integration in biosensing, bioimaging, targeted therapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in MXene-based materials for biomedical applications. Various synthesis methodologies and surface engineering strategies are discussed, enabling precise control over MXene composition, morphology, and functionality. We then elaborate on their interface interactions at the nano-bio level and explore the property-activity-effect relationships critical for biomedical performance. Special emphasis is placed on the roles they play in flexible biosensors, PTT/PDT systems, drug delivery platforms, wearable health-monitoring devices, and implantable biomedical tools. Additionally, the potential of MXenes in immunotherapy, theranostics, and clinical diagnostics is analysed alongside their antibacterial and osteogenic capabilities. Despite these advances, challenges such as long-term biostability, potential toxicity, and regulatory concerns must be addressed for clinical translation. Finally, this review highlights current opportunities and future directions for the rational design of MXene-based materials for biomedical applications to accelerate their practical implementation in healthcare and personalized medicine.