Open Access Article
Meisam Samadzadeh†
a,
Mahshid Danesh†b,
Atefeh Zarepourc,
Arezoo Khosravide,
Ali Zarrabi
*f and
Siavash Iravani
*g
aDepartment of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul 34396, Türkiye
bDepartment of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
cDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Kocaeli University, 41001, İzmit, Kocaeli, Türkiye
dDepartment of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istanbul Okan University, Istanbul 34959, Türkiye
eGraduate School of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan 320315, Taiwan
fDepartment of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Istinye University, Istanbul 34396, Türkiye. E-mail: alizarrabi@gmail.com
gIndependent Researcher, W Nazar ST, Boostan Ave, Isfahan, Iran. E-mail: siavashira@gmail.com
First published on 2nd January 2026
This review highlights the promising role of MXenes and their composites in diabetes management, emphasizing their dual utility in diagnostics and therapeutics. MXenes' exceptional electrical conductivity, hydrophilicity, mechanical robustness, and tunable surface chemistry facilitate the design of sensitive and selective biosensors for real-time and non-invasive monitoring of key diabetes biomarkers like glucose and acetone. Therapeutically, MXene-based materials enhance healing of diabetic complications such as foot ulcers by modulating inflammation, scavenging reactive oxygen species, promoting angiogenesis, and supporting tissue regeneration via multifunctional hydrogels, patches, and scaffolds. Despite these advances, challenges remain including environmentally harmful synthesis methods, limited scalability, oxidation-induced instability under physiological conditions, and insufficient biocompatibility data. Future efforts are directed toward developing greener and scalable synthesis routes, improving MXene stability through surface modifications, and integrating MXenes with cutting-edge technologies such as wearable devices, 3D bioprinting, and bioelectronics. Additionally, the review uniquely explores the incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to enable personalized and adaptive diabetes management. By providing a comprehensive synthesis of recent developments, current limitations, and innovative future directions, this review offers novel insights aimed at accelerating the clinical translation of MXene-based platforms to significantly enhance diabetes diagnosis and treatment.
Traditional methods for diabetes diagnosis and glucose monitoring involve biochemical assays such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements.5 Although these methods provide valuable clinical insights, they suffer from several limitations, including invasiveness, patient discomfort, and delayed results. On the other hand, the conventional self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) technique relies on finger-prick tests, which are not only painful but also provide discrete rather than continuous glucose data, making it challenging to detect sudden glycemic fluctuations.6 Recently, nanomaterials have gained attention in diabetes research, offering innovative approaches for both diagnosis and treatment. Their use in biomedicine has demonstrated notable benefits across various diabetes-related applications, including biomarker detection, glucose regulation, insulin-like activity, and complication prevention.7 So far, different types of nanomaterials have been used for detection and treatment of diabetes due to their interesting features.8,9 For example, graphene and its derivatives provide high surface area and excellent electrochemical properties for glucose sensing; gold and silver nanoparticles are widely employed for biosensing and drug delivery due to their stability and facile functionalization; quantum dots enable sensitive fluorescence-based detection, while polymeric nanoparticles facilitate controlled insulin delivery.10–16 In this context, MXene-based materials get significant attention in recent research. These are a new group of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides originate from MAX phases, a family of layered ternary compounds composed of a transition metal (M), an element from group A, and either carbon or nitrogen (X).17 Through the selective removal of the A-layer, typically achieved using hydrofluoric acid (HF) or alternative etching techniques, MXenes are produced with surface terminations such as hydroxyl (OH), fluorine (F), or oxygen (O).18 These functional groups play a crucial role in determining the chemical properties and application potential of MXenes. Their unique properties make them promising candidates for energy storage, catalysis, and biomedical applications. Recent advancements in synthesis methods aim to improve efficiency and safety, replacing traditional HF etching with alternative approaches like ammonium bifluoride (NH4HF2) or lithium fluoride with hydrochloric acid (LiF + HCl). These refined techniques enhance MXene quality, offering improved scalability for future applications in biosensors, supercapacitors, and catalysis.19 Among various 2D nanomaterials, MXenes are particularly promising because they combine high electrical conductivity, a large accessible surface area, intrinsic hydrophilicity, and tunable surface chemistry, features that facilitate biomolecule immobilization, efficient electrochemical response, and high drug- or biomarker-loading capacity.20,21 For instance, MXene-based platforms have demonstrated superior performance in electrochemical biosensing and drug delivery compared to traditional carbon-based or semiconducting 2D materials, which often require extensive surface modification to achieve comparable hydrophilicity and biocompatibility. Recent reviews have summarized how these properties make MXenes especially promising for biomedical applications such as sensing, imaging, and therapy.22–24
In diagnostics, MXene-based biosensors enable highly sensitive, selective, and rapid detection of glucose and other diabetes-related biomarkers, often through non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing platforms.25,26 These sensors exhibit wide linearity, low detection limits, and high repeatability, making them suitable for real-time monitoring and mass screening of diabetic patients. Additionally, MXenes enhance wearable sensor technologies, facilitating continuous and non-invasive diabetes monitoring. Their tunable surface chemistry allows for customization to improve sensor performance and biocompatibility, positioning MXenes as a next-generation material in diabetes diagnostics.27
Therapeutically, MXenes and their composites show significant potential in addressing diabetic complications, particularly diabetic foot ulcers, which are a major cause of morbidity in diabetes.28 MXene-based materials, such as hydrogels and microneedle patches, promote healing of diabetic wounds by reducing local glucose levels, providing oxygen delivery, and generating mild hyperthermia to stimulate tissue regeneration.29 They also exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by scavenging reactive oxygen species and modulating immune responses, which are crucial for chronic wound repair.30,31 Furthermore, MXene composites support tissue regeneration in diabetic related disease by enhancing angiogenesis and macrophage polarization, thereby accelerating healing processes.32,33 Despite these promising advances, challenges remain in scaling up MXene synthesis, ensuring long-term biocompatibility, and fully understanding the in vivo behavior, which are critical for clinical translation of MXene-based diabetes therapies.34
This review explores an overview of MXene-based composites and their multifaceted role in diabetes management, encompassing both diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The diagnostic section delves into MXene-based glucose sensing technologies, their integration into wearable continuous monitoring devices, and their superiority over traditional finger-prick methods. Additionally, the potential of MXenes in early biomarker detection is discussed, emphasizing their ability to enhance early-stage diabetes diagnosis. The therapeutic section highlights MXenes as innovative drug delivery systems, their potential in insulin delivery enhancement, and their contributions to tissue engineering and wound healing in diabetic patients. To ensure a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective, the literature included in this narrative review was identified through targeted searches in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus, covering the period 2015–2025 and using keywords such as “MXene”, “diabetes diagnosis”, “diabetes therapy”, “biosensor”, “tissue regeneration”, and “wound healing”. Finally, we examine the challenges in clinical translation, including biocompatibility concerns, scalability, and regulatory hurdles, providing insights into future research directions for MXene applications in diabetes care.
From an economic perspective, early disease detection reduces the financial burden on both healthcare systems and patients.42 Treating diseases at an advanced stage often requires extensive medical care, prolonged hospital stays, and complex therapeutic approaches, all of which contribute to higher healthcare costs. Preventative measures, including routine screenings and early-stage treatments, are generally more cost-effective and lead to better long-term health outcomes. Moreover, early intervention reduces the need for emergency care and intensive medical procedures, leading to more efficient resource allocation within healthcare systems.35
Beyond medical and economic benefits, early detection has substantial psychological and emotional implications. Patients diagnosed at an early stage often experience lower levels of anxiety and uncertainty compared to those diagnosed at a more advanced stage.43 Having early insight into a medical condition enables individuals to make well-informed choices about their treatment options and necessary lifestyle adjustments, allowing them to take greater control over their health. Furthermore, educational campaigns and awareness programs are vital in motivating people to undergo routine health assessments and screenings, promoting a preventative mindset toward disease management.44 The importance of early detection extends across various diseases and medical conditions, reinforcing the need for continued investment in screening programs, diagnostic technologies, and public health initiatives. Routine check-ups, genetic testing, self-examinations, and wearable health monitoring devices are valuable tools in identifying diseases at their earliest stages. Focusing on early diagnosis enables healthcare systems to optimize treatment approaches, achieve better health outcomes for patients, and help alleviate the worldwide impact of disease.45
Within this framework, MXenes have gained attention as valuable materials for diabetes detection and management, owing to their exceptional physicochemical characteristics. Their large surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and adaptable surface functionalities make them well-suited for use in biosensor development.46 MXenes' excellent electrical conductivity facilitates rapid electron transfer, which enhances both the sensitivity and responsiveness of electrochemical sensing devices. Their biocompatibility and high surface functionalizing capability enable the selective detection of glucose and other diabetes-related biomarkers with enhanced specificity.25,47 Unlike traditional enzyme-based glucose sensors, which suffer from enzyme degradation and instability, MXene-based sensors demonstrate greater durability and robustness, ensuring long-term performance. Additionally, their flexibility allows integration into wearable and implantable devices, facilitating continuous and real-time glucose monitoring with minimal patient intervention.20 Beyond glucose sensing, MXenes have shown potential in detecting early-stage biomarkers associated with diabetes, such as insulin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).48 Early diagnosis is vital for effective diabetes prevention and management, allowing early treatment and minimizing the chances of serious complications. MXenes' capability to detect biomarkers at extremely low levels improves diagnostic precision, supporting the development of advanced point-of-care (POC) testing and personalized medicine approaches.49
Glucose sensors are traditionally classified into enzymatic sensors, that are based on applying glucose oxidase (GOx) to catalyze the oxidation of glucose, and non-enzymatic types. These sensors have evolved through three generations, improving sensitivity and selectivity through the incorporation of synthetic mediators and nanomaterials. However, enzymatic sensors have some limitations such as enzyme instability, high costs, and susceptibility to environmental factors. To overcome these challenges, non-enzymatic glucose sensing devices have been designed, utilizing direct glucose oxidation at the electrode surface without the need for enzymes or mediators. MXenes, with their high surface area and excellent electron transfer properties, offer a significant advantage for non-enzymatic glucose sensing, enhancing both sensitivity and anti-interference capabilities. MXenes provide a clear advantage in this context: their high surface area, metallic conductivity, and tunable surface terminations enable efficient electron transfer and strong catalytic activity, improving both sensitivity and resistance to common interfering species. As a result, MXene-based electrodes offer a promising route toward stable, low-cost, and accurate non-enzymatic glucose sensors suitable for next-generation diabetes monitoring technologies.52 For instance, MXene-containing composites were used to overcome the invasive nature of blood sampling and provide more comfortable conditions for the diabetic patient. Shang et al. designed an innovative electrochemical sensor utilizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-Ti3C2 MXene nanocomposites for non-invasive glucose detection using saliva. The sensor was fabricated by coating a copper wire with GO-Ti3C2, followed by hydrothermal reduction to obtain rGO-Ti3C2 along with the addition of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) to enhance its conductivity and electrocatalytic properties. A protective wax layer was applied to improve sensor stability. The Au/rGO-Ti3C2 electrode exhibited an extensive linear detection range between 10 µM–21 mM, and a low detection limit of 3.1 µM, underscoring its high sensitivity for glucose sensing in saliva. In here, the superior conductivity of MXene was combined with the outstanding biocompatibility of gold nanoparticles, positioning it as a promising candidate for electrochemical biosensing applications.53
Beyond this, MXene-based sensors could be used for real-time tracking of glucose levels without frequent invasive blood sampling. These are wearable glucose sensors integrated with MXene-based nanomaterials that exhibit more sensitivity and stability resulted from the excellent electrical conductivity, extensive surface area, and diverse surface chemistry of MXenes.6,54 This led to the introduction of an innovative wearable biosensor used for noninvasive glucose monitoring through a novel MXene-functionalized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) conductive hydrogel. It was produced via a one-step synthesis method that combines the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS with MXene nanosheets, resulting in a flexible and highly sensitive electrochemical sensor. The incorporation of ethylene glycol (EG), during preparation, promoted polymer chain expansion and the formation of three-dimensional porous networks, that significantly enhanced the material's electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and stability. This unique composition addresses common challenges in wearable sensors, including material stacking and peeling issues often encountered with powdered components. The resulting hydrogel biosensor demonstrated exceptional performance characteristics, achieving a highly sensitive detection limit of 1.9 µM for glucose with a sensitivity of 21.7 µA mM−1 cm−2 in the physiologically relevant range of 1–94 µM. When integrated with screen-printed carbon electrodes and tested as a dermal patch, the device successfully monitored sweat glucose levels, demonstrating a high degree of agreement with traditional glucose meter measurements. The enhancement of sensor performance was related to the remarkable electron transport capabilities of MXene, which elevated the conductivity even at low concentrations (0.1% mass fraction), combined with the optimized structure of hydrogel that facilitates efficient enzyme immobilization through simple embedding.55 This innovation marked a major step forward in wearable technology for diabetes management, providing a comfortable method for continuous monitoring that eliminates the need for invasive blood sampling. The strong correlation found between glucose levels in sweat and those in blood highlights the potential for clinical use, offering a transformative approach to how patients track their condition daily.
Another research group used sweat for non-invasive continuous monitoring of glucose via fabricating a 3D graphene-MXene aerogel platform via mixing Ti3C2Tx MXene with reduced graphene oxide (MX-rGO) functionalized with glucose oxidase or polyaniline (PANI) that led to the production of an advanced electrochemical sensor (Fig. 1). This innovative structure greatly improved the efficiency of electron transfer between the enzyme's redox site and the electrode surface, while also ensuring stable enzyme immobilization to avoid any leakage. The system represented a major advancement in wearable diagnostics through its incorporation of an adaptive calibration mechanism that continuously monitored and compensated for sweat pH variations during physical activity. This dual-function capability addressed a critical challenge in noninvasive glucose monitoring by ensuring measurement accuracy despite natural fluctuations in sweat composition. The sensor demonstrated exceptional performance characteristics, achieving high linearity (R2 = 0.99) across the physiologically relevant glucose range of 20–200 µM with a sensitivity of 15.5 µA mM−1 cm−2 and detection limit of 33.69 µM. Simultaneously, the integrated pH sensor exhibited remarkable sensitivity (62.96 mV per pH) across the biological pH range of 4–8.56 By combining accurate glucose measurement with real-time environmental compensation, this technology enabled more dependable physiological monitoring during daily activities and exercise. It also established a foundation for developing comprehensive health monitoring systems capable of supporting personalized medicine and chronic disease management.
![]() | ||
| Fig. 1 (A) Schematic illustration of the biosensor fabrication process, including the formation of MXene-rGO aerogel through solvothermal self-assembly, the electrode architecture with its catalytic mechanisms for pH and glucose sensing, and the final integrated dual-functional sensor design. (B) (I) Chronoamperometric performance of the glucose sensor against common interferents. (II) Amperometric stability after varying bending durations at 100 µM glucose. (III) Long-term stability assessment of the glucose sensor. (C) (I) Photograph of the flexible printed circuit board. (II) Image of a user wearing the fully integrated bifunctional wearable sensor during cycling. (III) Real-time glucose monitoring using the forehead-mounted sensor, compared with readings from a commercial glucose meter. Reprinted with permission from ref. 56. Copyright 2024, American Chemical Society. | ||
Biosensor patch was produced in another study incorporated with MXene/Prussian blue (Ti3C2Tx/PB) composite material, for reliable and precise monitoring of essential biomarkers such as glucose and lactate in sweat (Fig. 2A). The fabricated sensor combined the distinctive two-dimensional structure and metallic-level conductivity of MXene with Prussian blue's catalytic properties, resulting in dramatically improved electrochemical activity and stability for hydrogen peroxide detection. It was an engineered solid-liquid-air three-phase interface that guarantee unrestricted oxygen supply to the enzymatic layer, and thereby exhibited enhanced enzyme performance. This design achieved a broad linear detection range between 10 × 10−6 to 1.5 × 10−3 M, a low detection limit of about 0.33 × 10−6 M, and exceptionally high sensitivity (35.3 µA mM−1 cm−2) for glucose detection. The platform also featured multiple sensing functions, including a pH sensor to adjust for local fluctuations that might impact measurements. In tests involving human subjects, the device effectively monitored glucose and lactate levels, simultaneously, with excellent sensitivity and consistency, surpassing the performance of prior graphene/PB and carbon nanotube/PB biosensors under practical conditions.57
![]() | ||
| Fig. 2 (A) (I) Schematic representation and corresponding images of the wearable biosensor patch. (a) Illustration of the multilayer patch structure, consisting of a sweat-uptake layer, sensor layer, and protective cover layer. (b) Front-side optical image showing the sensor array (left and right), reference electrode (top), counter electrode (middle), and pH sensor (bottom). (c) Back-side optical image of the sensor array. (d) Optical images of the wrist-mounted sensor laminated on human skin. (II) The wearable sweat-monitoring patch connected to a portable electrochemical analyzer during on-skin operation. (III) Comparison of glucose and pH levels before and after meals measured using three different glucose and pH sensors. Reprinted with permission from ref. 57. Copyright 2019, WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. (B) (I) Schematic of GMXeP substrate preparation and glucose detection. (II) MG SERS peak at 1613 cm−1 in fasting and postprandial tears of normal subjects. (III) Glucose levels in normal and diabetic tears determined from the calibration curve correlating glucose concentration with MG SERS intensity at 1613 cm−1. Reprinted with permission from ref. 58. Copyright 2021, Elsevier B.V. | ||
Tear could be used as another source for the non-invasive detection of diabetic using MXene-based sensors. For example, a paper-based sensor was produced via deposition of few-layer nanosheets of Ti3C2Tx onto a filter membrane followed by the addition of AuNPs. The system was further functionalized with GOx (Fig. 2B), which catalyzed the oxidation of glucose in tear fluid, generating hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This H2O2 then triggered a colorimetric reaction, converting leucomalachite green (LMG) to malachite green (MG), resulting in a detectable color change. It was a type of Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)-based sensor with improved sensitivity, resulted from the simultaneous presence of MXene and AuNPs, so that could detect very low amounts of glucose within tear fluid, demonstrating its potential as a non-invasive alternative for diabetes monitoring. The system could detect glucose at very low concentrations (as little as 0.32 µM), making it about 300 times more sensitive than typical glucose test strips. Moreover, within a linear range of 1–50 µM, the lowest detection concentration was 0.39 µM. The fabricated sensor was tested on tears of both healthy people and diabetics, which showed higher tear glucose levels in diabetic patients than in healthy individuals when fasting.58
MXenes have demonstrated excellent potential in capturing and detecting biomarkers due to their tunable surface properties and high adsorption capacity. They can be functionalized with antibodies or aptamers to selectively capture diabetes-related biomarkers such as glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Their high surface area and electrical conductivity enhance signal transduction in biosensing applications, allowing for ultra-sensitive biomarker detection.59,60 In this context, a new type of sensor (1D/2D KWO/Ti3C2Tx) was fabricated for the detection of acetone in breath, using potassium tungstate nanorods and Ti3C2Tx nanosheets that showed enhancement in acetone adsorption and charge transfer. This hybrid exhibited an order-of-magnitude improvement in sensitivity over pristine KWO while operating efficiently at room temperature, a key requirement for portable diagnostics. Its resistance to humidity-induced signal drift and long-term operational stability further demonstrates the value of incorporating MXene into gas-sensing architectures. These features highlight how MXene-based heterostructures can advance low-power, miniaturized, and reliable breath acetone sensors suitable for early diabetes screening and non-invasive monitoring.61
An innovative electrochemical immunosensor was fabricated using a nanocomposite of AuNP and MXene for rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective detection of Cystatin C (Cys-C), a critical biomarker for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It was a screen-printed electrode modified with AuNPs and Ti3C2Tx MXene via electrochemical deposition followed by the immobilization of papain to enable selective Cys-C binding. In clinical validation with 150 GDM patients and 150 healthy controls, serum Cys-C levels were significantly elevated in GDM patients (e.g., 1.15 ± 0.26 µg mL−1 at 34–40 weeks vs. 0.97 ± 0.14 µg mL−1 in controls; P < 0.05). The sensor exhibited the linear detection range of 50–5000 ng mL−1 and a strong correlation with standard latex immunoturbidimetric assays (R2 = 0.91). Selectivity tests showed negligible response to common interferents (including uric acid (UA), glutathione (GSH), dopamine (DA), BSA, ascorbic acid (AA), and cysteine (Cys)), and stability was maintained over 30 days with <10% signal variation. Higher levels of Cys-C were associated with a greater likelihood of negative outcomes, such as cesarean section delivery (r = 0.304), premature birth (r = 0.588), fetal distress (r = 0.304), postpartum hemorrhage (r = 0.670), and NICU admission (r = 0.437), all with P < 0.05. Therefore, the fabricated robust point-of-care biosensor presented significant potential for early risk assessment and improved management of GDM and its complications.62
Nucleic acids are another good target for the detection of diabetes. In this case, a highly sensitive electrochemical biosensor was designed to detect miRNA-377, a potential biomarker for diabetic nephropathy, using an innovative MXene-Au nanocomposite platform combined with a G-quadruplex nano-amplification strategy. For signal amplification, Guanine-rich DNA detection probes were conjugated to AuNPs, which form G-quadruplex structures upon target recognition. This structural change increased the binding affinity for methylene blue (MB), resulting in a 2.7-fold enhancement in electrochemical signal. The biosensor demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving a broad linear detection range from 10 aM to 100 pM and an ultra-low detection limit of 1.35 aM. The biosensor also exhibited strong selectivity and was successfully applied to detect miRNA-377 in human serum samples, confirming its potential for clinical diagnostics.63 This platform operated without requiring thermal cycling or reverse transcription, offering a convenient, highly sensitive, and stable alternative to conventional miRNA detection methods. The combination of MXene and Au led to superior electron transfer and the signal amplification from G-quadruplex formation made this biosensor a promising tool for early detection and monitoring of diabetic nephropathy.
In another study, a novel fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) aptasensor was developed using monolayer Ti3C2 MXene for the simultaneous detection of insulin and visceral adipose tissue-derived serotonin (vaspin), two crucial biomarkers for diabetes diagnosis and classification. The sensor exploited the exceptional fluorescence quenching properties of Ti3C2 MXene, which effectively suppressed the fluorescence of fluorescein-labeled insulin-binding aptamers (IBAs) and Cy7-labeled vaspin-binding aptamers (VBAs) through FRET. When target molecules were present, insulin and vaspin preferentially bound to their respective aptamers, causing the fluorescent probes to detach from the MXene surface and restore measurable fluorescence signals. The broad-spectrum absorption capability of Ti3C2 enabled simultaneous quenching of both FAM (Fluorescein Amidite) and Cy7 fluorophores at different wavelengths, allowing for parallel detection of both biomarkers. The aptasensor demonstrated high sensitivity with detection limits of 36 pM for insulin and 45 pM for vaspin, along with excellent specificity in complex biological matrices. Clinical validation using human serum samples confirmed the platform's diagnostic potential for distinguishing diabetes subtypes and identifying underlying pathological causes, which could significantly improve treatment stratification.47
Overall, MXene-based sensors have demonstrated exceptional potential for early and non-invasive detection of diabetes biomarkers, including glucose, insulin, HbA1c, miRNAs, and tear or sweat metabolites. Their high electrical conductivity, tunable surface chemistry, and large surface area facilitate rapid electron transfer, enhanced sensitivity, and selective biomarker detection, enabling integration into wearable and implantable devices for continuous monitoring. Despite these promising features, many reported device performance metrics, such as stability, detection limits, and selectivity, are derived from single-study experiments without comprehensive evaluation of sample size (n values), failure rates, signal drift, or confounding factors. Consequently, the reproducibility and real-world stability of these MXene sensors remain to be systematically validated and so future research should focus on standardized, multi-center studies to verify performance claims under physiologically relevant conditions and extended operational periods, ensuring that these advanced sensors can reliably transition from laboratory prototypes to clinical and home-use applications.
Some other types of MXene-based sensors used for diabetes detection are summarized in Table 1.
| Composite | Method of detection | Analyte | LOD | Linear range | Sensitivity | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cu2O/MXene/rGO ternary | Chronoamperometry (CA) | Glucose | 1.1 µM | 0.1–14 mM | 264.52 and 137.95 µA cm−2 mM−1 | 64 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/TBA/GOx | CA | Glucose | 23.00 µM | 0.05–0.25 | — | 65 |
| 0.75–27.75 µM | ||||||
| Ga@MXene/CS | Electrochemical detection (EC) | Glucose | 0.77 µM | 10–1000 µM | 1.122 µA µM−1 cm−1 | 66 |
| NiO decorated PANI N assembled Ti3C2Tx (NiOMP) | EC | Glucose | 0.019 µM | 5–500 µM | 3551.53 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 67 |
| Cu2O/M/AC | EC | Glucose | 1.96 µM | 0.004–13.3 mM and 15.3 to 28.4 mM | 430.3 and 240.5 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 68 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/graphene/GOx | EC | Glucose | 0.10 and 0.13 mM in air-saturated and O2-saturated PBS, respectively | 0.2–5.5 mM | 12.10 and 20.16 µA mM−1 | 69 |
| RFG/rGO/CS/GOx | EC | Glucose | 79.65 µM | 0–3000 µM | 46.71 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 70 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/PLL/GOx | EC | Glucose | 2.60 µM | 0.004–0.02 µM | 71.42 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 71 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/CuxO (x = 1, 2) (TC) | EC | Glucose | 0.065 µM | 1 µM–4.655 mM and 5.155–16.155 mM | 361 µA mM−1 cm−2 and 133 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 72 |
| MXene-Cu2O (Ti3C2Tx-Cu2O) | EC | Glucose | 2.83 mM | 0.01–30 mM | 11.061 µA−1 mM cm−2 | 73 |
| Cu/Cu2O nanoclusters/carbon spheres (Cu/Cu2O/CSs) | EC | Glucose | 5 µM | 10–690 µM and 1190–3690 µM | 63.8 µA mM−1 cm−2 and 22.6 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 74 |
| TNT/GOx | EC | Glucose | 8.50 µM | 0.03–1.0 µM | 56.60 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 75 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/rGO/GOx | EC | Glucose | 2.18 µM | 0.005–2.5 µM | 26.64 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 76 |
| GO/CS/Ti3C2Tx | EC | Glucose | 1.96 µM | 0.0398–1.319 µM | 98.10 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 77 |
| MXene/GOx/SH | ||||||
| FTO-CNTs/PEI/GOx | EC | Glucose | 70 µM | 0.07–0.7 µM | 63.38 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 78 |
| PGOx@MXene/CS | EC | Glucose enzyme | 3.1 µM | 0.03–16.5 mM | 48.98 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 79 |
| Pt NPs/NPC@MXene/Au | EC | Glucose | 7 µM | 3–1500 µM | 0.08268 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 80 |
| MXene/NiCo-LDH | EC | Glucose | 0.53 µM | 2–4096 µM | 64.75 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 81 |
| Cu nanospheres@porous carbon/3D-KSCs | EC | Glucose | 0.48 µM | 0.15 µM–5.62 mM | 0.02867 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 82 |
| Ni/LIG | EC | Glucose | 0.29 µM | 0.5–1666 µM | 2.040 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 83 |
| GS/GNR/Ni/GCE | EC | Glucose | 2.5 nM | 5 nM–5 mM | 2.3 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 84 |
| Copper nanowire–carbon nanotube bilayer (Cu-NW-CNT-BL) | EC | Glucose | 0.33 nM | 10–2000 µM | 1.907 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 85 |
| Co-MOF/NF | EC | Glucose | 1.3 nM | 10–3000 µM | 10.886 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 86 |
| ZnO/MXene | EC | Glucose | 17 µM | 0.05–0.7 mM | 29 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 87 |
| Ti3C2Tx MXene/graphene/AuNPs (MGA) | EC | Glucose | 2 µM | 2–400 µM | 169.49 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 88 |
| Pt/MXene | EC | Glucose | 29.15 µM | 0–8 mM | 3.43 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 89 |
| MXene/methylene blue | Dual-channel EC | Glucose | 17.05 µM | 0.08–1.25 mM | 2.4 nA mM−1 | 90 |
| GOx/Au/MXene/Nafion | Colorimetric sensing | Glucose | 5.9 µM | 100–18000 µM | 0.0045 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 91 |
| MWCNT/MXene/MoS2 | Field-effect transistor (FET) | Glucose | 500 pM | 0.01 µM–8.5 mM | 1700 µA mM−1 cm−2 | 92 |
| Cu/Cu2O/C nanoparticles and MXene-based | Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) | Glucose | 1.70 mM | 3–10 mM | — | 93 |
| MXene/MoS2 | Piezotronics method | Acetone gas sensor | 5.84% | 5–30 ppm | — | 94 |
Thanks to their distinctive characteristics, such as large surface area, hydrophilic functional groups, excellent electrical conductivity, and biodegradability, MXenes have attracted significant interest in wound healing and tissue engineering applications. Researchers have integrated MXenes into various wound dressing platforms, including electrospun nanofiber membranes, hydrogels, and microneedles to harness their antibacterial effects, stimulate cell growth, and speed up tissue repair. These materials also support tissue engineering applications by enhancing angiogenesis and providing a regenerative microenvironment for effective wound healing and tissue repair.97 MXenes have shown promising potential for treating diabetic wound healing and in tissue engineering, particularly in regenerating β-cells in the liver. MXenes could facilitate the regeneration of pancreatic β-cells, offering a potential therapeutic approach for diabetes. Their biodegradability and antibacterial properties further enhance their application in chronic wound healing associated with diabetes. Integrating MXenes into liver tissue engineering could provide a platform for regenerating β-cells, potentially improving insulin production and restoring pancreatic function.98
Researchers explored the use of microneedles (MNs) for diabetic wound healing, which offer advantages such as deeper drug penetration and biodegradability. For example, to overcome the mechanical strength limitations of traditional microneedles, researchers combined a poly(γ-glutamic acid) (γ-PGA)-based microneedles with Ti2C3 MXenes which were loaded asiaticoside (MN-MXenes-AS), a compound known to promote wound healing by enhancing epithelialization and angiogenesis (Fig. 3). MXene provided structural reinforcement through hydrogen-bond interactions with the polymer matrix and increased drug-loading capacity due to its large surface area. It was a biocompatible microneedle patch promoted angiogenesis by upregulating CD31 expression and stimulated fibroblast migration, while MXene contributed mild ROS modulation and improved tissue perfusion through its photothermal properties. In vivo studies in diabetic mice demonstrated that the MN-MXenes-AS treatment resulted in faster wound closure compared to controls. Furthermore, the treated wounds showed increased angiogenesis, indicated by enhanced blood vessel formation, and improved tissue regeneration, resulting in better healing outcomes.99 According to the results of this study, MXenes not only could enhance the mechanical strength of microneedles but also induce sustainability in drug release pattern that led to the enhancement in therapeutic performance.
![]() | ||
| Fig. 3 (A) Diagram illustrating the MXene-based microneedle patch (MN-MOF-GO-Ag) engineered to improve the healing of diabetic wounds. (B) Confocal microscopy images of live/dead cell staining in HUVECs after co-culture with various microneedles for 24 h and 72 h. (C) Photographic images showing fibroblast migration in standard cell culture medium (control) and in medium supplemented with AS or MN-MXene-AS extract at 0, 6, 12, and 24 hours. (D) Representative images of diabetic wounds subjected to different treatments on different days. Reprinted from ref. 99 under the terms of the Creative Commons CC BY license. Copyright 2022, Springer Nature. | ||
A γ-PGA-based microneedle (MN) patch incorporating GOx-loaded Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets (MN-PGA-MXene-GOx) was developed to address the glucose-rich, highly inflamed milieu of diabetic wounds. In this design, the MN array enabled GOx to penetrate deeply into the tissue, where the enzyme converted excess glucose into gluconic acid, effectively lowering local glucose levels and re-acidifying the wound bed. The Ti3C2 MXene component not only acted as a reservoir for controlled GOx release but also functioned as a mild photothermal agent; upon near-infrared (NIR) exposure, it produced gentle heating (∼40 °C) that enhanced enzymatic activity, enhancing perfusion, and supported angiogenic and proliferative processes. Both γ-PGA and MXene further helped counter oxidative stress by quenching reactive oxygen species (ROS), including hydrogen peroxide produced during glucose metabolism. In diabetic mouse studies, application of the MN-PGA-MXene-GOx patch led to markedly faster healing, attenuated inflammation, and elevated collagen formation and vascular growth. Tissue examinations revealed robust granulation, improved epithelial regeneration, and upregulated vascular markers. The therapeutic benefits stemmed from the coordinated actions of glucose depletion, ROS modulation, and MXene-mediated photothermal stimulation, collectively shifting the wound microenvironment toward regeneration. NIR-triggered heating also encouraged endothelial migration and supported better microcirculation. Safety assessments showed good compatibility with blood and tissue, with no notable immune-related toxicity.100
The Fe3O4/MXene (FM) heterojunction-laden loaded into the double-layer gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) microneedle (GFM) were used for treating infected diabetic wounds. Incorporation of Ti3C2Tx MXene provided strong NIR related photothermal responsiveness, allowing rapid heat generation to stoped the bacterial growth and simultaneously enhanced the catalytic performance of the FM hybrid. The FM nanozyme exhibited catalase (CAT)- and superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activities, helping modulate excessive ROS in injured tissue. Additionally, the controlled release of Fe2+/Fe3+ ions induced bacterial ferroptosis by elevating intracellular ROS and triggering lipid peroxidation, ultimately compromising bacterial membranes and effectively eliminating Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). In vivo studies using a diabetic rat model showed that the GFM microneedle significantly accelerated wound closure, reduced inflammation, and enhanced collagen deposition and angiogenesis, surpassing the efficacy of commercial wound dressings. Histology further confirmed improved re-epithelialization and vigorous neovascular formation, and biocompatibility evaluations showed low toxicity and good hemocompatibility (Fig. 4).101
![]() | ||
| Fig. 4 (A) Illustration depicting the fabrication steps and therapeutic use of the double-layer microneedle integrated with the FM heterojunction for biomedical applications. (B) SEM images showing bacterial morphology. (C) GFM microneedle inserted into the skin of BALB/c nude mice. (D) In vitro photothermal conversion performance of the microneedles. (E) Optical images depicting wound sites. Reprinted from ref. 101 under the terms of the Creative Commons CC BY license. Copyright 2025, Wiley. | ||
Besides microneedles, MXenes were also used in the structure of hydrogels and were used to address the challenges of diabetic bone defect healing. For example, a multifunctional hydrogel was produced via combining copper-functionalized MXene nanosheets with GelMA and alginate-graft-dopamine (Alg-DA). The system exhibited photothermal therapy (PTT) effect and controlled release of Cu2+ ion, in response to the NIR light irradiation and pH changes. The strong photothermal conversion ability of MXene led to a significant antibacterial activity and enhanced angiogenesis and osteogenesis by improving blood circulation and cellular activity. Furthermore, MXene enabled the controlled release of Cu2+ ions in a pH-responsive manner, ensuring a sustained effect on reducing oxidative stress, modulating immune responses (via promoting macrophage polarization toward the M2 phenotype), and so promoting tissue regeneration. It also promoted adhesion, migration, and proliferation of bone-forming cells while inhibiting osteoclast activity, thereby preventing bone resorption and ensuring balanced bone repair. In diabetic rat models with critical-sized cranial defects, the fabricated hydrogel not only enhanced vascularization and bone regeneration but also accelerated wound healing by reducing oxidative stress and creating a favorable immune environment.102 Therefore, the photothermal feature of MXenes could lead to inducing antibacterial activity and promote tissue repair and regeneration, that introduce them as a good candidate for treating diabetic related disease.
In another research, a multifunctional implant was fabricated using a bio-heterojunction enzyme coating the combination of tantalum carbide MXene (Ta4C3 MXene), silver phosphate (Ag3PO4), and glucose oxidase (GOx) to control diabetic implant-associated infections. In here, MXene acted as the primary electron-transfer mediator, enabling efficient NIR photothermal conversion and enhancing charge separation at the Ta4C3/Ag3PO4 interface. This improved catalytic efficiency supported a cascade of ROS-generating reactions, including GOx-produced hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) feeding Ag3PO4-driven Fenton-like and laccase-mimicking pathways. MXene simultaneously depleted intracellular glutathione (GSH), weakening bacterial antioxidant defenses and increasing susceptibility to oxidative damage. These combined photothermal and catalytic mechanisms disrupted biofilms and produced broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, while the MXene-modified surface also supported osteogenic responses by improving cell adhesion and proliferation, and calcium nodule formation. In diabetic infection models, the implant reduced inflammation, enhanced collagen deposition, and improved tissue regeneration (Fig. 5A–C).103
![]() | ||
| Fig. 5 (A) Schematic illustrating the fabrication process of SP-M/A@G and its cascade-amplified therapeutic mechanism for treating implant-associated infections. (B) Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining results (n = 3 per sample). (C) Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining results, (n = 3 per sample). Reprinted with permission from ref. 103. Copyright 2025, Wiley-VCH GmbH. (D) Diagram depicting the production of membrane dressings via electrospinning, incorporating MXene-loaded microgels within a chitosan/gelatin polymer matrix to enhance the healing of infected diabetic wounds. Reprinted from ref. 104 under the terms of the Creative Commons CC BY license. Copyright 2024, Springer Nature. | ||
The photothermal capability of MXenes was used in another research to produce a composite wound dressing mat composed of microgels containing titanium carbide MXene (Ti3C2 MXene) nanosheets incorporated into the chitosan/gelatin matrix nanofibers (Fig. 5D). The fabricated formulation showed dual photothermal properties; high-temperature PTT, which was related to the presence of chitosan/gelatin matrix and led to the rapid bacterial eradication and biofilm disruption and so, sterilizing the composite, and mild heating (MPTT), which was provided by MXene microgels and led to the promotion of fibroblast migration and tissue regeneration. In this formulation, presence of chitosan/gelatin matrix provided biocompatibility, structural integrity, and moisture retention, ensuring a stable and conducive healing environment, while the MXene part showed potential in stimulating cellular responses essential for tissue repair, making the system effective for both infection control and the promotion of diabetic wound healing. In vivo tests confirmed that the dressing not only combated infection but also significantly accelerated the healing process by enhancing vascularization and tissue regeneration via supporting the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts.104
Cu2O/Ti3C2Tx nanocomposite was developed in another study to address the impaired wound healing commonly observed in diabetic patients, particularly when complicated by infections from multidrug-resistant bacteria such as MRSA. This nanocomposite exhibited minimal cytotoxicity toward NIH-3T3 fibroblast cells at concentrations up to 50 µg mL−1, even after NIR irradiation, indicating their biocompatibility. It also demonstrated excellent stability with low metal ion leaching and negligible hemolytic activity at concentrations up to 400 µg mL−1. In vivo studies using MRSA-infected diabetic mice revealed that topical application of Cu2O/Ti3C2Tx nanosheets, coupled with NIR irradiation, significantly reduced wound area and bacterial load. The enhanced antimicrobial effect was linked to the photothermal response and ROS production, which disrupted bacterial membranes and promoted bacterial eradication. Histological analyses of treated wounds revealed increased collagen deposition, enhanced angiogenesis, and improved epithelialization, all of which are essential for effective tissue repair in diabetes-related chronic wounds.105 According to the results of this research, MXenes could not only be used against normal bacteria, but also, they could affect antibiotic resistance form of bacteria and could be effectively used against chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers.
An innovative sponge scaffold was fabricated for diabetic wound management by integrating hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCS) and porcine acellular dermal matrix (PADM) with Ti3C2Tx (MXene) nanosheets. The fabricated scaffold demonstrated robust antibacterial activity, eliminating 98.89% of S. aureus and 97.21% of E. coli within 36 h. It also demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, showing no cytotoxic effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) or mouse fibroblasts (L929 cells), while significantly enhancing cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis. In diabetic rat models, the K1P6@Mxene scaffold reduced inflammation, enhanced collagen deposition, and accelerated wound healing by seven days compared to the controls. Histological analysis revealed improved re-epithelialization, angiogenesis, and minimal scarring, underscoring the scaffold's potential as a multifunctional material for diabetic wound care. By contributing to the scaffold's electrical conductivity, MXenes enabled effective coupling with the endogenous electric fields present at wound sites. This coupling facilitated directed cell migration and proliferation, both of which are crucial for effective tissue regeneration. Moreover, the photothermal properties of MXenes allowed for the absorption of NIR light, leading to localized heating that can further enhance antibacterial efficacy and promote tissue repair processes. Collectively, these attributes made the fabricated MXene-integrated scaffolds a promising approach for improving diabetic wound healing outcomes.106
To prevent diabetes-related biofilm infections (DRBIs), a DNase-I-loaded vanadium carbide MXene (DNase-I@V2C) nanoregulator was developed by combining the enzymatic activity of DNase-I with the antioxidant and biofilm-penetration properties of V2C MXene. This system degraded extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in biofilms, allowing the immune system to combat infections more effectively. Additionally, the nanoregulator redirected neutrophil activity from NETosis to phagocytosis by scavenging ROSs and modulating immune signaling pathways. DNase-I@V2C exhibited strong SOD- and CAT-like activity, effectively degrading biofilms by reducing EPS integrity and biomass, while preserving DNase-I activity. It suppressed NET formation, enhanced phagocytosis, and facilitated efficient bacterial clearance. In diabetic rat models, the nanoregulator accelerated biofilm clearance, reduced bacterial loads, and promoted tissue regeneration in infected joints. It also improved healing of wound via inducing epidermal growth, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition, resulting in faster wound closure and improved dermal reconstruction.107
Interestingly, MXenes, in combination with other compounds, could appear in the role of an immunoregulator agent and help in treating diabetic wounds via engineering the immune system. For example, to overcome the barriers in the recovery of diabetic ulcers, a bioactive hydrogel composite (FM-Exo hydrogel) was developed via integrating M2 macrophage-derived exosomes (M2 macrophage-derived extracellular vesicles) and MXene (F127-functionalized titanium carbide nanosheets). MXene provided antibacterial activity and enhanced exosome retention, while the exosomes delivered anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative signals. Indeed, MXene stabilized the exosomes and modulated macrophage behavior, while sustained exosome release activated the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway, driving M1 → M2 polarization. This shift suppressed tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion, creating a microenvironment that supported fibroblast proliferation, endothelial migration, and angiogenesis. The system also restored cell activity that was disrupted under high glucose, largely through macrophage-mediated paracrine signaling. In vivo tests showed that FM-Exo reduced inflammation, increased M2 macrophage abundance, enhanced neovascularization, and promoted organized collagen deposition (Fig. 6).108
![]() | ||
| Fig. 6 (A) Schematic representation of the FM-Exo hydrogel, showcasing its multifunctional properties for diabetic wound healing and skin regeneration. (B) Laser doppler images depicting subcutaneous vascular flow and blood supply in the wound area. (C) Sequential wound images illustrating the healing process over time. Reprinted with permission from ref. 108. Copyright 2024, American Chemical Society. | ||
Besides healing wounds or other types of diabetic related disease, MXenes could be used for treating diabetes itself, using stem cells. For example, an innovative 3D culture system was designed using Ti2C MXene composite nanofibers to address the challenges of pancreatic β-cell generation for diabetes therapy. These nanofibers were fabricated by doping polycaprolactone (PCL) with Ti2C nanosheets through an electrospinning process, resulting in a scaffold with enhanced porosity, hydrophilicity, and cytocompatibility. The incorporation of MXene into nanofiber scaffolds created a favorable microenvironment that supported the adhesion, growth, and lineage-specific differentiation of human Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hWJ-MSCs) toward pancreatic β-cell phenotypes. The differentiation process was evaluated through the expression of essential β-cell transcription factors and proteins such as Pancreatic and Duodenal Homeobox 1 (PDX-1), MAFA, and insulin, alongside functional assessments including glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Compared to polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofiber controls, the Ti2C-enhanced scaffolds notably enhanced stem cell attachment, proliferation, and pancreatic differentiation. Cells cultured on these MXene-enriched nanofibers showed elevated expression levels of β-cell marker and demonstrated enhanced insulin secretion in response to glucose challenge, confirming the scaffold's effectiveness in promoting functional islet-like cell development. Besides, low levels of cytotoxicity and oxidative stress confirmed the biocompatible nature of the material.109 Therefore, these nanofibers enhanced stem cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation, showing higher β-cell marker expression and insulin secretion, making them a strong candidate for advancing stem cell-based treatments.
Table 2 summarizes recent advances in MXene-based composite materials developed for diabetes therapy. These composites integrate MXene nanosheets with various functional components to enhance therapeutic efficacy through improved biocompatibility, targeted drug delivery, reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, antibacterial properties, and electrical conductivity. The multifunctional properties of these MXene Composites have demonstrated encouraging outcomes in speeding up the wound healing process, regulating oxidative stress, and promoting tissue regeneration in diabetic models.
| Composite | Type of MXene | Therapeutic effect | Results | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TM-mRNA/MXene/HA microneedle hydrogel | Ti3C2Tx | Angiogenesis ↑; endothelial migration ↑; PTT-responsive release | Regeneration ↑; collagen deposition ↑; superior wound closure vs. IV/ID delivery | 110 |
| MXene-PDA (PMAg)/P(AM-co-SBMA) E-skin | Ti3C2Tx | Electrical stimulation-enhanced healing; motion/health sensing | High-sensitivity motion/physiological sensing; reliable signals; supports diabetic wound healing | 111 |
| GOx-CeO2@MXene quantum-dot bio-HJ | Ti3C2Tx | POD/CAT-like catalysis; glucose ↓; ˙OH ↑; inflammation ↓ | 99.99% antibacterial (E. coli, S. aureus); angiogenesis ↑; faster wound closure; inflammation ↓ | 112 |
| MXene@TiO2-GA/OKGM hydrogel | MXene@TiO2 | PTT antibacterial; ROS scavenging; ES-induced fibroblast proliferation, collagen ↑, angiogenesis ↑ | Hemostasis ↑; antibacterial; accelerated healing; inflammation ↓; proliferation ↑; safe | 113 |
| MXene-TA/PEGDA-gelatin scaffold (PGMT) | Ti3C2 | ROS scavenging; inflammation ↓; ES-driven proliferation & regeneration | ROS removal ↑; wound healing ↑; faster closure; angiogenesis ↑ with ES | 114 |
| KC/PF-TA hydrogel + MXene-Ag NPs | Ti3C2Tx | PTT antibacterial; anti-inflammatory; angiogenesis ↑; regeneration ↑ | Cell proliferation/migration ↑; healing ↑ in infected diabetic wounds; antibacterial; anti-inflammatory; regenerative | 115 |
| HA-DA + PDA/MXene hydrogel | Ti3C2 | O2 ↑; ROS ↓; antibacterial; anti-inflammatory; PTT; regeneration ↑ | O2 delivery ↑; ROS ↓; infection inhibition; M1 → M2 shift; endothelial growth ↑; accelerated healing with mild PTT | 116 |
| MXene-magnetic colloids/PNIPAM-alginate DN hydrogel | Ti3C2Tx | Photo-magnetic release; toxicity ↓; healing ↑ | Stimuli-responsive drug release; improved healing of full-thickness infected wounds | 117 |
| MXene-GelMA-TA hydrogel | Ti3C2Tx | E/ROS regulation; antioxidant; fibroblast ↑; inflammation ↓; angiogenesis ↑; collagen ↑ | Fibroblast protection; ROS ↓; function restored; healing ↑ (conductivity + ROS control) | 118 |
Translating advanced therapeutics to clinics also involves addressing regulatory and ethical considerations. Regulatory bodies, such as the FDA or EMA, require extensive clinical data to evaluate whether a novel therapy meets the standards for patient safety and efficacy. This includes long-term monitoring for potential adverse effects and validation of manufacturing processes to ensure consistency. Clinical trials provide the necessary evidence to support these evaluations and build the trust of both regulators and healthcare providers. Furthermore, clinical trials help establish the therapeutics' real-world value. By comparing new therapies with existing standards of care, trials identify not only the clinical benefits but also the cost-effectiveness and patient outcomes, critical factors influencing adoption in healthcare systems. Without these trials, promising technologies risk remaining confined to research settings, unable to make meaningful impacts on patient care. This highlights the essential role of clinical trials in ensuring that innovations reach their intended beneficiaries safely and effectively.157
MXene-based technologies show great promise as therapeutic and diagnostic tools, especially for treating the complex health needs of diabetic patients. Applications like drug delivery and wound healing are exciting, but moving these technologies into real-world medical use requires thorough clinical trials. These trials are vital to check the safety, compatibility with the human body, how they work over time, and any long-term effects.158 Diabetic patients have unique challenges, such as slower wound healing, weaker immune systems, and higher risks of infections and other complications.159 Treatments must be carefully designed and tested to avoid making these problems worse. Clinical trials help find the best doses, delivery methods, and how MXene-based systems interact with the body to make sure they are safe and effective for everyone, including diabetic patients. These trials are also important for meeting regulatory standards and getting approval from organizations like the FDA.157 They build confidence in the safety and usefulness of MXene technologies for doctors and patients. By comparing MXene treatments with existing options, these trials can show if they provide faster healing, better drug delivery, or fewer side effects. Additionally, clinical trials help us understand how different patients respond to MXene-based treatments. This is especially important for diabetes, where each patient's condition can be very different. Testing ensures that treatments can be personalized to meet individual needs. Overall, these trials are essential to make sure MXene-based technologies are safe, reliable, and effective for improving patient care.155
Despite these promising developments, several challenges remain before MXenes and their composites can be widely adopted in clinical practice. The synthesis of MXenes currently relies on hazardous chemicals and complex multi-step processes that limit scalability and raise concerns about environmental safety and production costs. Moreover, MXenes are prone to oxidation and degradation in physiological environments, which compromises their stability and long-term functionality in biomedical devices. Biocompatibility and potential toxicity issues also require thorough investigation through comprehensive in vivo studies to ensure safe clinical translation. Standardization of MXene production and device fabrication is essential to achieve reproducible performance and regulatory approval for medical applications. Clinical translation of MXene-based technologies in diabetes requires rigorous validation of their safety, biocompatibility, and long-term stability through comprehensive preclinical and clinical studies to ensure effective and reliable patient outcomes.
Future perspectives for MXenes and their composites in diabetes focus on overcoming these challenges through innovative synthesis methods, surface engineering, and integration with advanced technologies. Developing scalable, environmentally friendly production techniques will be critical to meet clinical and commercial demands. Enhanced surface modifications aimed at improving oxidation resistance and biocompatibility will extend MXenes' functional lifespan in biological environments. Furthermore, combining MXenes with emerging fields such as 3D bioprinting, bioelectronics, and smart wearable systems promises to create multifunctional platforms for personalized diabetes management. Notably, the future of diabetes management is increasingly driven by the integration of AI, ML, and IoT, creating more personalized and smarter care solutions. AI-enabled continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems now predict blood sugar trends hours ahead, enabling timely interventions and better glycemic control. ML algorithms process large amounts of data from wearables and lifestyle inputs to customize treatment plans, optimize insulin delivery, and minimize complications—making management more proactive and precise. Additionally, IoT connectivity allows for real-time data sharing between patients and healthcare providers, enhancing remote monitoring and supporting advanced systems like artificial pancreas devices that automatically adjust insulin doses. As these technologies develop, they promise to improve patient adherence, lower healthcare costs, and foster a highly adaptive, patient-centered approach to diabetes care.
Footnote |
| † Authors with the same contribution. |
| This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2026 |