2D Nanomaterials and Their Drug Conjugates for Phototherapy and Magnetic Hyperthermia Therapy of Cancer and Infections

Photothermal therapy (PTT) and magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) using 2D nanomaterials (2DnMat) have recently emerged as promising alternative treatments for cancer and bacterial infections, both important global health challenges. The present review intends to provide not only a comprehensive overview, but also an integrative approach of the state-of-the-art knowledge on 2DnMat for PTT and MHT of cancer and infections. High surface area, high extinction coefficient in near-infra-red (NIR) region, responsiveness to external stimuli like magnetic fields, and the endless possibilities of surface functionalization, make 2DnMat ideal platforms for PTT and MHT. Most of these materials are biocompatible with mammalian cells, presenting some cytotoxicity against bacteria. However, each material must be comprehensively characterized physiochemically and biologically, since small variations can have significant biological impact. Highly efficient and selective in vitro and in vivo PTTs for the treatment of cancer and infections are reported, using a wide range of 2DnMat concentrations and incubation times. MHT is described to be more effective against bacterial infections than against cancer therapy. Despite the promising results attained, some challenges remain, such as improving 2DnMat conjugation with drugs, understanding their in vivo biodegradation, and refining the evaluation criteria to measure PTT or MHT effects. Graphene-based materials (GBM), transition metal dichalcogenide (TMDC), transition metal oxide (TMO), MXenes, and black phosphorus (BP) surge as new 2DnMat for cancer/infections treatment. 2DnMat + NIR kills cancer cells/bacteria through hyperthermia in vitro and in vivo. Magnetic hyperthermia therapy using magnetic 2DnMat causes cancer or bacteria death. 2DnMat can be conjugated with molecules via covalent or non-covalent interactions. Conjugation with drugs or polymers increase biocompatibility and therapeutic effect.image

Automated summary

Photothermal therapy (PTT) and magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) using 2D nanomaterials (2DnMat) show promising potential for alternative cancer and bacterial infection treatments. The unique properties of 2DnMat, including high surface area, near-infrared absorption, responsiveness to external stimuli, and surface functionalization possibilities, make them ideal platforms for PTT and MHT. Although significant progress has been made in in vitro and in vivo studies, challenges such as improving drug conjugation, understanding in vivo biodegradation, and refining evaluation criteria still need to be addressed.