Polyethylene Glycol‐Functionalized Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites: Advances in Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Polyethylene glycol‐functionalized graphene oxide (PEG‐GO) nanocomposites have emerged as a versatile platform in biomedical engineering, combining graphene oxide's outstanding physicochemical properties with the enhanced biocompatibility and stability provided by PEGylation. This review explores recent developments in the synthesis and functionalization of PEG‐GO nanocomposites, emphasizing their therapeutic applications in drug delivery, tissue engineering, photothermal therapy, and biosensing. Covalent and noncovalent functionalization methods, such as carbodiimide coupling, π–π stacking, and ultrasonication‐assisted dispersion, allow precise control over drug‐loading capacities (e.g., 6.47 ± 0.08 mg/mg for temozolomide) and stimuli‐responsive release (up to 71.12% pH‐triggered release at pH 6.5). Innovations like freeze‐dried masterbatches and 3D‐printed scaffolds enhance their utility, with proven efficacy in tumor suppression under near‐infrared irradiation and mechanical reinforcement of biomaterials (67.7% increase in Young's modulus with 1 wt% PEG‐GO). However, challenges persist, including long‐term biocompatibility concerns, as PEG‐GO induces organ‐specific oxidative stress and inhibits enzymatic degradation. In vivo studies report oxidative stress in brain tissues, peaking 7 days postadministration. Additionally, scalable synthesis, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance remain critical hurdles. Emerging applications in combinatorial therapies and biosensing underscore PEG‐GO's potential to bridge gaps in precision medicine. Addressing biocompatibility and standardization challenges will be key to translating PEG‐GO innovations from laboratory research to clinical practice, positioning them at the forefront of next‐generation targeted therapeutics and regenerative medicine.