Design of oxide nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Abstract

Oxide nanoparticles have garnered significant attention in biomedical research owing to the numerous available synthetic approaches and highly tunable physicochemical properties, which enable diverse functions within biological systems. These nanoparticles can be broadly categorized based on their characteristics useful for biomedical applications. Magnetic oxide nanoparticles, for instance, are prominently used as contrast agents in MRI and as mediators to generate heat, mechanical force or electricity for therapy. Catalytic oxide nanoparticles can generate or eliminate reactive oxygen species, which are central to numerous biological processes. Porous oxide nanoparticles are adept at loading dye or drug molecules, making them invaluable for bioimaging and therapeutic interventions. In this Review, we highlight strategies for the fabrication and advanced engineering of oxide nanoparticles tailored for biomedical applications. We primarily focus on iron oxide, ceria and silica nanoparticles, delving into their diagnostic and therapeutic potentials. We also discuss future prospects and the challenges that must be addressed to meet clinical needs. Oxide nanoparticles, particularly iron oxide, ceria and silica nanoparticles, hold significant promise for biomedical applications owing to their unique magnetic, catalytic and porous properties. This Review highlights design strategies for their diagnostic and therapeutic uses and future clinical challenges.