Dual (pH- and ROS-) Responsive Antibacterial MXene-Based Nanocarrier for Drug Delivery

MXenes in microbiology and virology: from pathogen detection to antimicrobial applications

MXenes, a rapidly emerging class of two-dimensional materials, have demonstrated exceptional versatility and functionality across various domains, including microbiology and virology. Recent advancements in MXene synthesis techniques, encompassing both top-down and bottom-up approaches, have expanded their potential applications in pathogen detection, antimicrobial treatments, and biomedical platforms. This review highlights the unique physicochemical properties of MXenes, including their large surface area, tunable surface chemistry, and high biocompatibility, which contribute to their antimicrobial efficacy against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2. The antibacterial mechanisms of MXenes, including membrane disruption, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and photothermal inactivation, are discussed alongside hybridization strategies that enhance their bioactivity. Additionally, the challenges and future prospects of MXenes in developing advanced antimicrobial coatings, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic systems are outlined. By addressing current limitations and exploring innovative solutions, this study underscores the transformative potential of MXenes in microbiology, virology, and biomedical applications.

Exploring the revolutionary potential of MXene nanoparticles in breast Cancer therapy: A review of applications and future prospects

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Early detection and accurate diagnosis are crucial for successful treatment and improving patient outcomes. Nanoparticles, such as MXenes, have emerged as a promising tool for various breast cancer applications due to their unique properties. MXenes possess a high surface area and excellent biocompatibility, and can be engineered to enhance targeting ability, as well as mechanical, electrochemical, and optical properties. This review article explores the potential of MXenes in breast cancer detection and treatment, including miRNA detection, MRI-guided photothermal therapy, combined therapy, and immunotherapy. MXenes can be used for miRNA detection, which has shown promise as a biomarker for breast cancer. MXenes can also be used for MRI-guided photothermal therapy, where they can absorb light and convert it into heat to destroy cancer cells. Additionally, MXenes can be used in combination therapy with other drugs to enhance their efficacy. MXenes can also be used for immunotherapy by enhancing the immune response against cancer cells. The article also discusses the future prospects of MXenes in breast cancer research and their cytotoxicity effects. The use of MXenes in breast cancer research is a novel approach with great potential for improving patient outcomes.

Smart MXene-based microrobots for targeted drug delivery and synergistic therapies

MXenes and their composites exhibit remarkable electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and biocompatibility, making them ideal candidates for microrobot fabrication. Their tunable surface chemistry allows for easy functionalization, which enhances their interaction with biological environments, thereby facilitating targeted therapies. Such smart microrobots can be engineered to navigate through complex biological systems with precision via the integration of responsive elements, such as stimuli-sensitive polymers or magnetic components. MXene-based microrobots are able to actively seek out specific tissues or cells. This capability is crucial for applications in cancer treatment, where localized drug delivery minimizes side effects and enhances therapeutic efficacy. The primary advantage of MXene-based microrobots lies in their ability to deliver therapeutic agents directly to diseased cells. Utilizing ligand-receptor interactions, these microrobots can bind to target cells and release their payload in a controlled manner. This targeted delivery system not only improves the effectiveness of the drug but also reduces the required dosage, thus mitigating potential side effects. Moreover, smart MXene-based microrobots can facilitate synergistic therapies by co-delivering multiple therapeutic agents. For instance, combining chemotherapy drugs with immunotherapeutic agents could enhance treatment outcomes in cancer therapy. The ability to simultaneously deliver different types of drugs allows for more comprehensive treatment strategies that can tackle tumor heterogeneity. Significant advancements are anticipated in synergistic therapies, particularly in chemo-photothermal, chemodynamic, and photothermal/photodynamic therapies. These strategies leverage multiple therapeutic modalities to enhance cancer treatment outcomes. Despite their outstanding potential, several challenges remain in the development of MXene-based microrobots namely matters pertaining to scalability, stability in biological environments, and associated regulatory hurdles which ought to be addressed. Future research should focus on optimizing the design and functionality of these microrobots, including enhancing their navigation capabilities and ensuring their safety and effectiveness in vivo. By presenting the innovative capabilities of MXene-based microrobots, this perspective aims to inspire additional explorations in the field of advanced targeted drug delivery systems and synergistic therapies, ultimately contributing to the future of personalized medicine and oncology.

Application of carbon-based nanomaterials in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by permanent impairment of brain function across the whole brain. This condition results in a progressive deterioration of cognitive function in patients and is frequently associated with psychological symptoms such as agitation and anxiety, imposing a significant burden on both patients and their families. Nanomaterials possess numerous distinctive physical and chemical features that render them extensively utilized. In the biomedical domain, nanomaterials can be utilized for disease prevention and therapy, including medication delivery systems, biosensors, and tissue engineering. This article explores the etiology and potential molecular processes of AD, as well as the application of carbon-based nanomaterials in the diagnosis and treatment of AD. Some of such nanomaterials are carbon quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and graphene, among others. These materials possess distinctive physicochemical features that render them highly promising for applications in biosensing, drug delivery, neuroprotection, and photothermal treatment. In addition, this review explored various therapeutic approaches for AD in terms of reducing inflammation, preventing oxidative damage, and inhibiting Aβ aggregation. The advent of carbon nanomaterials in nanotechnology has facilitated the development of novel treatment approaches for Alzheimer's disease. These strategies provide promising approaches for early diagnosis, effective intervention and neuroprotection of the disease.

Isolation of Biomolecules Using MXenes

Biomolecule isolation is a crucial process in diverse biomedical and biochemical applications, including diagnostics, therapeutics, research, and manufacturing. Recently, MXenes, a novel class of two-dimensional nanomaterials, have emerged as promising adsorbents for this purpose due to their unique physicochemical properties. These biocompatible and antibacterial nanomaterials feature a high aspect ratio, excellent conductivity, and versatile surface chemistry. This timely review explores the potential of MXenes for isolating a wide range of biomolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules, while highlighting key future research trends and innovative applications poised to transform the field. This review provides an in-depth discussion of various synthesis methods and functionalization techniques that enhance the specificity and efficiency of MXenes in biomolecule isolation. In addition, the mechanisms by which MXenes interact with biomolecules are elucidated, offering insights into their selective adsorption and customized separation capabilities. This review also addresses recent advancements, identifies existing challenges, and examines emerging trends that may drive the next wave of innovation in this rapidly evolving area.

Electrostimulation-Based Decellularized Matrix Bladder Patch Promotes Bladder Repair in Rats

Bladder tissue engineering offers significant potential for repairing defects resulting from congenital and acquired conditions. However, the effectiveness of engineered grafts is often constrained by insufficient vascularization and neural regeneration. This study utilized four primary biomaterials─gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), chitin nanocrystals (ChiNC), titanium carbide (MXene), and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC)─to formulate two types of bioinks, GCM0.2 and GCM0.2-ADSC, in specified proportions. These bioinks were 3D printed onto bladder acellular matrix (BAM) patches to create BAM-GCM0.2 and BAM-GCM0.2-ADSC patches. The BAM-GCM0.2-ADSC patches underwent electrical stimulation to yield GCM0.2-ADSC-ES bladder patches. Employed for the repair of rat bladder defects, these patches were evaluated against a Control group, which underwent partial cystectomy followed by direct suturing. Our findings indicate that the inclusion of ADSC and electrical stimulation significantly enhances the regeneration of rat bladder smooth muscle (from [24.052 ± 2.782] % to [57.380 ± 4.017] %), blood vessels (from [5.326 ± 0.703] % to [12.723 ± 1.440] %), and nerves (from [0.227 ± 0.017] % to [1.369 ± 0.218] %). This research underscores the superior bladder repair capabilities of the GCM0.2-ADSC-ES patch and opens new pathways for bladder defect repair.

Endogenous electric field coupling Mxene sponge for diabetic wound management: haemostatic, antibacterial, and healing

Improper management of diabetic wound effusion and disruption of the endogenous electric field can lead to passive healing of damaged tissue, affecting the process of tissue cascade repair. This study developed an extracellular matrix sponge scaffold (K1P6@Mxene) by incorporating Mxene into an acellular dermal stroma-hydroxypropyl chitosan interpenetrating network structure. This scaffold is designed to couple with the endogenous electric field and promote precise tissue remodelling in diabetic wounds. The fibrous structure of the sponge closely resembles that of a natural extracellular matrix, providing a conducive microenvironment for cells to adhere grow, and exchange oxygen. Additionally, the inclusion of Mxene enhances antibacterial activity(98.89%) and electrical conductivity within the scaffold. Simultaneously, K1P6@Mxene exhibits excellent water absorption (39 times) and porosity (91%). It actively interacts with the endogenous electric field to guide cell migration and growth on the wound surface upon absorbing wound exudate. In in vivo experiments, the K1P6@Mxene sponge reduced the inflammatory response in diabetic wounds, increased collagen deposition and arrangement, promoted microvascular regeneration, Facilitate expedited re-epithelialization of wounds, minimize scar formation, and accelerate the healing process of diabetic wounds by 7 days. Therefore, this extracellular matrix sponge scaffold, combined with an endogenous electric field, presents an appealing approach for the comprehensive repair of diabetic wounds.

Research Progress on Ti3C2Tx-Based Composite Materials in Antibacterial Field

The integration of two-dimensional Ti3C2Tx nanosheets and other materials offers broader application options in the antibacterial field. Ti3C2Tx-based composites demonstrate synergistic physical, chemical, and photodynamic antibacterial activity. In this review, we aim to explore the potential of Ti3C2Tx-based composites in the fabrication of an antibiotic-free antibacterial agent with a focus on their systematic classification, manufacturing technology, and application potential. We investigate various components of Ti3C2Tx-based composites, such as metals, metal oxides, metal sulfides, organic frameworks, photosensitizers, etc. We also summarize the fabrication techniques used for preparing Ti3C2Tx-based composites, including solution mixing, chemical synthesis, layer-by-layer self-assembly, electrostatic assembly, and three-dimensional (3D) printing. The most recent developments in antibacterial application are also thoroughly discussed, with special attention to the medical, water treatment, food preservation, flexible textile, and industrial sectors. Ultimately, the future directions and opportunities are delineated, underscoring the focus of further research, such as elucidating microscopic mechanisms, achieving a balance between biocompatibility and antibacterial efficiency, and investigating effective, eco-friendly synthesis techniques combined with intelligent technology. A survey of the literature provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art developments in Ti3C2Tx-based composites and their potential applications in various fields. This comprehensive review covers the variety, preparation methods, and applications of Ti3C2Tx-based composites, drawing upon a total of 171 English-language references. Notably, 155 of these references are from the past five years, indicating significant recent progress and interest in this research area.

Potential Biosafety of Mxenes: Stability, Biodegradability, Toxicity and Biocompatibility

MXenes are two-dimensional nanomaterials with unique properties that are widely used in various fields of research, mostly in the field of energy. Fewer publications are devoted to MXene application in biomedicine and the question is: are MXenes safe for use in biological systems? The sharp edges of MXenes provide the structure of "nanoknives" which cause damage in direct physical contact with cells. This is effectively used for antibacterial research. However, on the other hand, most studies in cultured cells and rodents report that they do not cause obvious signs of cytotoxicity and are fully biocompatible. The aim of our review was to consider whether MXenes can really be considered non-toxic and biocompatible. Often the last two concepts are confused. We first reviewed aspects such as the stability and biodegradation of MXenes, and then analyzed the mechanisms of toxicity and their consequences for bacteria, cultured cells, and rodents, with subsequent conclusions regarding their biocompatibility.

Recent advances using MXenes in biomedical applications

An MXene is a novel two-dimensional transition metal carbide or nitride, with a typical formula of Mn+1XnTx (M = transition metals, X = carbon or nitrogen, and T = functional groups). MXenes have found wide application in biomedicine and biosensing, owing to their high biocompatibility, abundant reactive surface groups, good conductivity, and photothermal properties. Applications include photo- and electrochemical sensors, energy storage, and electronics. This review will highlight recent applications of MXene and MXene-derived materials in drug delivery, tissue engineering, antimicrobial activity, and biosensors (optical and electrochemical). We further elaborate on recent developments in utilizing MXenes for photothermal cancer therapy, and we explore multimodal treatments, including the integration of chemotherapeutic agents or magnetic nanoparticles for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. The high surface area and reactivity of MXenes provide an interface to respond to the changes in the environment, allowing MXene-based drug carriers to respond to changes in pH, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and electrical signals for controlled release applications. Furthermore, the conductivity of MXene enables it to provide electrical stimulation for cultured cells and endows it with photocatalytic capabilities that can be used in antibiotic applications. Wearable and in situ sensors incorporating MXenes are also included. Major challenges and future development directions of MXenes in biomedical applications are also discussed. The remarkable properties of MXenes will undoubtedly lead to their increasing use in the applications discussed here, as well as many others.