Knowledge-Based Design and Fabrication of Advanced Composites and Hybrid Materials for Nanomedicine

Medical applications of nanotechnology in tissue engineering, biomedical devices, biosensors, and biological machines have significantly enhanced over the past decade. Advanced composite and hybrid materials (ACHMs) have become the foundation of nanomedicine research because biological systems are complex in nature and require materials with specific structures and functionality. Knowledge-based design of new materials, development of advanced manufacturing techniques, and engineering of the material/biological system interfaces are the key driving forces to expand the applications of ACHMs in nanomedicine. Merging existing knowledge and experience with the implementation of artificial intelligence can further improve the design and manufacture of advanced materials, especially when guided by a bio-inspired approach. Herein, we present recent advances in ACHMs in nanomedicine. Concepts for the design, challenges, and fabrication of materials for biomedical applications are discussed. From a materials perspective, polymer-matrix nanocomposites in the form of hydrogels, nanofibers, and architecturally designed structures are elaborated. Advanced electrospinning and 3D printing techniques are highlighted. Applications of ACHMs in the design and fabrication of functional biosensors and wearable devices are also demonstrated. Moreover, the use of ACHMs in pharmaceuticals, in vivo imaging, cancer diagnosis, and therapy is addressed. Finally, the challenges for the nanotechnology implementation concerning regulatory issues are discussed and prospects are presented.