Mesoporous nanotubes as biomaterials

Abstract

This review provides an overview of selected recent research efforts that employ the use of mesoporous nanotubes in a biomaterial context, e.g. principally as a therapeutic or biosensing platform. We focus on the compositions of alumina, boron nitride, silica, silicon, titania, and zinc oxide, along with selected accounts involving single-walled carbon nanotubes. Where known, attention is directed toward the biodegradability and biocompatibility of a given nanotube type, its tunability of size and surface chemistry, and relevance of these parameters to its function as a biomaterial.