Graphene- gold based nanocomposites applications in cancer diseases; Efficient detection and therapeutic tools

Eur J Med Chem. 2017 Oct 20:139:349-366. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2017.07.036. Epub 2017 Jul 28.

Abstract

Early detection and efficient treatment of cancer disease remains a drastic challenge in 21st century. Throughout the bulk of funds, studies, and current therapeutics, cancer seems to aggressively advance with drug resistance strains and recurrence rates. Nevertheless, nanotechnologies have indeed given hope to be the next generation for oncology applications. According to US National cancer institute, it is anticipated to revolutionize the perspectives of cancer diagnosis and therapy. With such success, nano-hybrid strategy creates a marvelous preference. Herein, graphene-gold based composites are being increasingly studied in the field of oncology, for their outstanding performance as robust vehicle of therapeutic agents, built-in optical diagnostic features, and functionality as theranostic system. Additional modes of treatments are also applicable including photothermal, photodynamic, as well as combined therapy. This review aims to demonstrate the various cancer-related applications of graphene-gold based hybrids in terms of detection and therapy, highlighting the major attributes that led to designate such system as a promising ally in the war against cancer.

Keywords: Cancer; Detection; Gold nanoparticles; Graphene; Nanocomposite; Therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Gold / chemistry
  • Gold / therapeutic use*
  • Graphite / chemistry
  • Graphite / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Molecular Structure
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry
  • Nanocomposites / therapeutic use*
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Structure-Activity Relationship

Substances

  • Gold
  • Graphite