The utilization of
nanomaterials in biomedical applications
has
surged in recent years; yet, the transition from research to practical
implementation remains a great challenge. However, a promising area
of research has emerged with the integration of nanomaterials with
diagnostic and therapeutic radionuclides. In this Review, we elucidate
the motivations behind selecting metal oxide- and phosphate-based
nanomaterials in conjunction with these radionuclides, while addressing
its issues and limitations. Various metal oxide- and phosphate-based
nanoparticles, exhibiting low toxicity and high tolerability, have
been proposed for diverse biomedical applications, ranging from bone
substitutes to drug delivery systems and controlled release vectors
for pharmaceuticals, including radionuclides for nuclear medicine
imaging and therapy. Moreover, the potential synergistic effects of
multimodal combinational therapies, integrating chemotherapeutics,
immunomodulators, or hyperthermia, underscore the versatility of these
nanoconstructs. Our comprehensive exploration includes the underlying
principles of radiolabeling strategies, the pivotal attributes of
nanomaterial platforms, and their applications. Through this perspective,
we present the potential of nanotechnology-enabled nuclear medicine.
Furthermore, we discuss the potential systemic and local applications
of these nanoconstructs, considering their in vitro and in vivo characteristics, as well as their physicochemical
properties.