Biodegradable graphene nanocomposites as functional biomaterials: a review of their role in controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering

Abstract

Biodegradable graphene nanocomposites (BGNs) have emerged as highly versatile platforms at the intersection of nanotechnology, materials science, and biomedicine. By combining the exceptional physicochemical properties of graphene-based materials with the biocompatibility and environmental sustainability of biodegradable polymers, BGNs constitute a unique class of materials for advanced biomedical applications. Key features of BGNs, such as high surface area, tunable surface chemistry, excellent mechanical strength, and the ability to interface effectively with biological systems, make them promising candidates for controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering. In drug delivery, BGNs facilitate high drug loading and enable spatially and temporally controlled release, which can be triggered by internal or external stimuli, thereby improving therapeutic efficiency while minimizing side effects. In tissue engineering, the mechanical robustness and customizable structure of BGNs support cellular attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, rendering them suitable as scaffolds for regenerating bone, cartilage, skin, and neural tissues. This review explores recent advancements in the fabrication techniques and biomedical applications of BGNs, emphasizing their role in achieving precise drug delivery and effective tissue regeneration.