Dispersed graphene materials of biomedical interest and their toxicological consequences.

Graphene is one-atom thick nanocarbon displaying a unique honeycomb structure and extensive conjugation. In addition to high surface area to mass ratio, it displays unique optical, thermal, electronic and mechanical properties. Atomic scale tunability of graphene has attracted immense research interest with a prospective utility in electronics, desalination, energy sectors, and beyond. Its intrinsic opto-thermal properties are appealing from the standpoint of multimodal drug delivery, imaging and biosensing applications. Hydrophobic basal plane of sheets can be efficiently loaded with aromatic molecules via non-specific forces. With intense biomedical interest, methods are evolving to produce defect-free and dispersion stable sheets. This review summarizes advancements in synthetic approaches and strategies of stabilizing graphene derivatives in aqueous medium. We have described the interaction of colloidal graphene with cellular and sub-cellular components, and subsequent physiological signaling. Finally, a systematic discussion is provided covering toxicological challenges and possible solutions on utilizing graphene formulations for high-end biomedical applications. Unlabelled Image • Graphene is a one-atom thick nanocarbon displaying high surface area-to-mass ratio. • Dispersion stable graphene is of great biomedical interest. • Advancement in synthetic approaches and interaction of colloidal graphene with biointerfaces are discussed. • Toxicological challenges on utilizing graphene for high-end biomedical applications have been reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]