Synthesis of Graphene-Based Nanomaterials for Medicinal Applications: A Mini- Review

Abstract: “Graphene oxide” is obtained by the reaction of two-dimensional graphene sheets with oxygen-containing oxidants, like atomic oxygen (O), hydroxyl (OH) and carboxyl (COOH). Graphene oxide-based nanomaterials are an interesting topic in research due to the presence of distinctive physicochemical properties in them. Biocompatibility is an important factor for applications in tissue engineering. The catalytic activity of carbon-based catalysts has been deeply affected by their surface chemistry. The presence of oxygen functionality at the graphene oxide surface provides reactive sites for chemical alteration. Graphene oxide (GO), is currently being used in biotechnology and medicine for the treatment of cancer, drug delivery, and also for cellular imaging and as anti-viral agent etc. Also, GO is characterized by various physicochemical properties, like nanoscale size, high surface area, and electrical charge. Recent studies suggest that several factors affect the biocompatibility of carbon-based nanomaterials.