Progress of MXenes in Biomedical Sciences

The two-dimensional structural configuration possessed by MXenes are prepared using group B elements carbo-nitrides (carbides and nitrides) in the form of stacking atoms. MXenes are extending widely with full diversity due to their unique features and properties. They exhibit excellent conductivity, amazing catalytic response, optical, mechanical, magnetic and electrical properties. MXenes are enriched with surface functional groups like oxygen, fluorine and hydroxyl, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. The chapter focuses on the motivation and ground of development of MXenes in a biomedical framework. The top-down route is often adopted to synthesize MXenes, whereas the bottom-up approach is rarely used. In general, the type and percentage of the T group during the manufacturing process can be used to modify and improve the surface properties of MXenes which is a significant approach in the biomedical areas. Surface customization of MXenes promotes many characteristics related to the functional groups, existing charge density and increased surface area. The various modified synthesis techniques based on rarely used bottom-up techniques have also been discussed in order to enhance the feedback and performance of MXenes in biotic science. Distinct features of structural characteristics, and classification of various structures of MXenes, 1D, 2D, 3D and quasi-0D structures are involved in the present chapter. 2D structure is the most common amongst all in which extensive studies have been carried on as well as administered. Several confrontations met in the field of developing MXenes are highlighted such as monolayer-fabrication, yielding nanosheets of MXenes with increased surface area, extensive synthesis mechanisms and easily detectable flaws and inadequacies. Bioimaging can be realized with photoacoustic and luminescence imaging as well as with Tomographical techniques. Therapeutic methods involve photothermal, photodynamic and thermodynamic treatments. Apart from all these, tissue engineering, antibacterial procedures, and drug-delivery systems also employ MXenes under biomedical categories. The gauging of cytotoxicity and cytocompatibility has been included in the chapter along with the future outlook and scope emerging with the progress of MXenes with hybridized architectures. Superficial moderation for colloidal steadiness, achieving 0D and 2D nanomaterials decorated enhanced MXene hybrid structure, to extract 0D/2D and 2D/2D nanocomposites for intensified theranostic flexibility and for the wide and extensive exploration, MXenes are engineered with 3D biomaterials, in addition to obtain 3D/2D enhanced hybrids of MXenes.