Recent advances in biomedical applications of smart nanomaterials: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Smart nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as a transformative tool in the biomedical field owing to their distinct physicochemical properties and multifunctional abilities. In this comprehensive review, we have featured the current advancements in utilization of smart NMs in four critical domains of biomedical science: (i) wound healing, (ii) cancer theranostics, (iii) tissue engineering and regeneration, and (iv) nanotoxicity assessment. In section 3, we have discussed the wound healing applications of metallic and non-metallic smart NMs in controlled drug delivery, rapid tissue repair/regeneration, and antimicrobial properties in synergism with photodynamic and photothermal therapy. Section 4 encompasses recent breakthroughs in cancer theranostics that leverage the dual functionality of smart NMs for simultaneous diagnosis and therapy. Nanocarriers designed with imaging agents and therapeutic payloads enable targeted drug delivery along with a reduction in side effects and improvement in treatment efficacy. The integration of stimulus-responsive mechanisms, such as pH and temperature sensitivity, further enhances their theranostic potential. Section 5 underscores NM-based efficient scaffolds and 3-dimensional (3D) bioprinting strategies to boost tissue engineering and regeneration by delivering growth factors, genetic materials, and bioactive chemicals. Section 6 encompasses recent breakthroughs in nanotoxicity assessment through in vitro, in vivo, and in silico approaches. The section also includes key toxicity mechanisms and challenges of smart nanomaterials in clinical translation.