Recent advances in metal/metal-oxide nanoparticle-polymer nanohybrid for biomedical applications

Abstract

An increase in the application of metal/metal-oxide nanoparticle–polymer hybrid systems for biochemical purposes is due to their highly tunable porosity, large surface area and wide range of functional properties. These advanced materials exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, antibacterial properties, and controlled drug release characteristics, making them highly suitable for drug delivery, medical imaging, biosensing, and tissue engineering. The incorporation of metals and metal-oxide nanoparticles into the polymer matrix enhances the mechanical durability, chemical stability, and responsiveness of mesoporous polymers, broadening their applications in cutting-edge medical technologies. This study provides insight into the application of this hybrid system in medical imaging: MRI, CT scans, and fluorescence imaging. Targeted drug delivery: facilitating the controlled and sustained release of bioactive materials. Regenerative medicine, as bioactive scaffolds for tissue engineering, supports cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. And therapeutic applications such as photothermal and photodynamic therapy. However, despite these advancements, challenges remain, including biocompatibility concerns, potential toxicity, and difficulties in large-scale manufacturing. This study highlights recent innovations, existing challenges, and prospects in metal/metal-oxide nanoparticle-polymer hybrid applications in next-generation healthcare systems.

HIGHLIGHTS • The incorporation of metal/metal-oxide nanoparticles into polymers enhances mechanical strength, chemical stability, and responsiveness. • These hybrid materials function as bioactive scaffolds for tissue engineering, supporting cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. • Mesoporous polymer-nanoparticle hybrids enable controlled and sustained drug release. • They play a role in photothermal and photodynamic therapy, allowing minimally invasive cancer treatments.