Advances in Graphene Platforms for Drug Delivery in Cancer and Its Biocompatibility

Abstract

In the past decade, studies on the biomedical applications of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have increased substantially, especially those related to cancer therapy. Experimental evidence has shown that GQD platforms do not merely serve for drug delivery but have multifunctional properties: their surface also allows several types of molecules to be joined and has photothermal properties that, when combined, make therapies more effective. Most studies have shown evidence of this specificity and therapeutic efficacy at the in vitro level. There is also evidence for potential use in the monitoring of cellular events given the high-quality bioimages that can be obtained with this type of nanomaterial. However, the application of this nanotechnology has stalled due to the lack of available biosafety and biocompatibility studies. This chapter addresses the advances in the use of GQD platforms for drug delivery and the biocompatibility studies reported so far.

Recent breakthroughs in graphene quantum dot-enhanced sonodynamic and photodynamic therapy

“…64,164 Furthermore, their biocompatibility, tissuepenetrating ability, and selective targeting of cancer cells underscore their potential for minimally invasive and therapeutic applications. 6,165,166 The remarkable properties of GQDs present exciting prospects for developing innovative and more effective treatment modalities, particularly for various diseases including cancer.…”

“…The integration of GQD-based nanomaterials with innovative strategies such as SDT and PDT addresses the challenges inherent to traditional cancer treatments. 2–6 Therefore, it is imperative to develop less invasive and more efficient treatment modalities. PDT, a burgeoning anti-cancer strategy, has garnered considerable interest because of its minimal invasiveness, reduced systemic toxicity, fewer side effects, and diminished risk of drug resistance.…”