Carbon nanotubes: potential medical applications and safety concerns

摘要: Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have unique atomic structure, as well outstanding thermal, mechanical, and electronic properties, making them extremely attractive materials for several different applications. Many research groups are focusing on biomedical applications of carbon-based nanomaterials, however the application CNTs to field is not developing fast in other areas. While CNTs-based products already being used textiles, polymer matrices strengthen materials, sports articles, microelectronics, energy storage, etc., medicinal medical devices vivo based been commercialized yet. However, application, i.e., conjugated siRNA cancer therapy, or imaging colorectal many may enter clinical trials next years. Concerns related toxicity must be overcome order these a near future. This article reviews emerging CNTs, specifically therapy. It also deals with challenges associated possible such their fully understood toxicological profile human body.