Tannic acid: A link between metallic elements and biomedical applications

Abstract

Tannic acid (TA), a plant-derived polyphenol, has emerged as a promising biomaterial due to its inherent bioactivity. However, its potential instability and toxicity often lead to limitations in bioavailability and applications. Recent advances highlight the coordination of TA with metal ions to form metal–phenolic networks (MPNs) or metal nanoparticles, substantially enhancing stability and therapeutic potential. The significant enhancement and broad application of the antibacterial, anticancer, reparative, and sensing properties of TA-metal complexes make them key contributors to innovative biomedical solutions. This review emphasizes these key advancements and provides an integrated perspective combining materials science and biology to better understand the mechanisms and biomedical potential of TA and its metal complexes.