Carbon nanomaterials in prodrug-based therapeutics

Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) have recently attracted much attention in biomedical applications. The size of these nanoparticles is in the range of 1 nm-1 μm, which is comparable to the sizes in biological environments such as protein, DNA, and the size of biological barriers like ion channels. This favorable size has made CNMs suitable nanocarriers for loading and delivering drugs to specific targets inside the body. In addition, some CNMs have unique optical properties that are suitable for biomedical applications such as imaging and photothermal therapy (PTT). However, despite the quick advancements in nanotechnology and biomaterials, it is still difficult to deliver chemotherapeutic agents effectively. Prodrug-based nanoassemblies are an effective platform for drug delivery because they have several benefits, including increased drug bioavailability, high drug loading, resistance to recrystallization after encapsulation, and regulated drug release over time and space. Herein, we will review the most recent developments in prodrug-based therapeutics using CNMs. First, the synthesis and characterization methods of CNMs will be briefly described. Moreover, after a brief explanation of the structure and properties, we will highlight current research on the use of CNMs for prodrug-based therapies. In the end, in addition to pointing out the toxicity of each of the CNMs, we will offer some perspectives on the challenges and future directions facing CNMs in this field at the conclusion.