Two-Dimensional (2D) Hybrid Nanomaterials for Diagnosis and Treatment of Cancer

Abstract

Incessant rising in morbidity and mortality rates in humans due to various types of cancers requires effective treatments and early-stage diagnosis. The chemotherapy is typically unable to cure tumors or improve survival rates due to its adverse effects on normal cells. Moreover, existing technologies are less sensitive and ineffective in detecting the early stage of tumor malignancy, which is also one of the main reasons for disease progression. In this context, quantitative and qualitative analysis of cancer is essential for both early detection and treatment. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials (NMs) are a potential candidate for the treatment and detection of cancer because of their distinctive physicochemical properties, including high surface area, easily functionalized surface, high photo-thermal ability high ion mobility, tunable release behaviors, and high biocompatibility. The combined effects of targeted drug delivery, photothermal/photodynamic therapy, imaging, and 2D-NMs chemotherapy have great possibilities in treating and diagnosing cancer. Herein, we discuss the synthesis of 2D-NMs using top-down (which includes mechanical, liquid, chemical oxidation, and electrochemical exfoliation) and (2) bottom-up (involves CVD and wet chemical synthesis process) approach. The biocompatibility of the 2D-NMs, anti-cancer applications which involves their role as biosensors (electrochemical, fluorescent), drug and gene delivery, and photothermal agents. Biocompatibility and possible practical solutions for cancer diagnosis as well as cures are also discussed. Therefore, this review article provides a newer insight of real time cancer diagnostic and treatment (limitation and challenges) using 2D-NMs.