Advancements in graphene-based composites: A review of the emerging applications in healthcare

Graphene and related materials are emerging revolutionary materials due to fascinating stimuli-responsive physiochemical properties having widespread applications in developing advanced nano-systems for detection, diagnostics, and therapeutics in biomedical fields. Various materials like metal nanoparticles, polymers, dyes, drugs, and proteins could be combined yielding graphene-based composite materials (GBCMs) to synergistically fulfill different biomedical requirements. The 2D conjugated structure, easy surface functionalization via covalent or van der Waal interactions, and combination with different components for versatile functionalities altogether contribute to the development of GBCM for healthcare applications. This review specifically focuses on GBCMs and discusses specific material properties relevant to their material applications in healthcare. Furthermore, the synthesis, toxicity, and biocompatibility of these GBCMs, and their interactions with biological materials are thoroughly discussed. Importantly, the recent cutting-edge applications in the field of healthcare, including its role in the development of antibacterial, anti-viral, and photothermal therapies, wound healing, drug delivery, neurodegenerative disease therapy, and biosensing based on GBCMs are well-updated. Additionally, the applications of GBCMs in point-of-care devices, wearable electronics, and tissue engineering are well summarized. We hope this review opens up more possibilities to design more innovative healthcare materials derived from graphene.