Issue 15, 2023

Versatile nanodiamond-based tools for therapeutics and bioimaging

Abstract

Nanodiamonds (NDs) are a remarkable class of carbon-based nanoparticles in nanomedicine which have recently become a hot topic of research due to their unique features including functionalization versatility, tunable opto-magnetic properties, chemical stability, minimal cytotoxicity, high affinity to biomolecules and biocompatibility. These attractive features make NDs versatile tools for a wide range of biologically relevant applications. In this feature article, we discuss the opto-magnetic properties of negatively charged nitrogen vacancy (NV) centres in NDs as fluorescence probes. We further discuss the frequently used chemical methods for surface chemistry modification of NDs which are relevant for biomedical applications. The in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of modified NDs is also highlighted. Subsequently, we give an overview of recent state-of-the-art biomedical applications of NDs as versatile tools for bioimaging and detection, and as targeting nanocarriers for chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, gene therapy, antimicrobial and antiviral therapy, and bone tissue engineering. Finally, we pinpoint the main challenges for NDs in biomedical applications which lie ahead and discuss perspectives on future directions in advancing the field for practical applications and clinical translations.

Graphical abstract: Versatile nanodiamond-based tools for therapeutics and bioimaging

Article information

Article type
Highlight
Submitted
30 Nov 2022
Accepted
04 Jan 2023
First published
05 Jan 2023

Chem. Commun., 2023,59, 2039-2055

Versatile nanodiamond-based tools for therapeutics and bioimaging

H. M. Leung, H. C. Chu, Z. Mao and P. K. Lo, Chem. Commun., 2023, 59, 2039 DOI: 10.1039/D2CC06495B

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