Exploring Carbon Nanotubes as Antimicrobial Agents: Efficacy, Toxicity, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), including single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), have been integrated into pharmaceutical and medical domains as drug delivery systems since the turn of the twenty-first century. Their capacity to effectively transport diverse therapeutics across membranes and into living cells has sparked interest in medicinal applications encompassing enhanced imaging, antimicrobial solutions, tissue regeneration, and targeted medication or gene delivery. Amidst the wealth of evidence showcasing the advantages of CNTs, such as heightened efficacy and reduced side effects, recent studies have unveiled unforeseen toxicities linked to their usage. Notably, the antimicrobial potential of CNTs has garnered significant attention, promising novel strategies for combating microbial infections. This mini review presents a synthesis and discussion of both the antimicrobial attributes and potential toxicity associated with carbon nanotubes. Despite their promising potential, several challenges stand as important considerations, deciphering the precise mechanisms through which CNTs exert their antibacterial effects remains a complex puzzle and ensuring the biocompatibility and safety of CNTs, both in terms of host cells and the environment, is paramount for clinical translation. Lastly, navigating regulatory pathways and standardization efforts will be integral for realizing the scope of CNTs as antimicrobial agents. The multifaceted nature of CNTs' antibacterial attributes underscores the complexity of their interactions within various systems. Addressing challenges through surface functionalization to enhance hydrophilicity and biocompatibility underscores a strategic approach for future exploration. As research progresses, carbon nanotubes hold the potential to emerge as a pivotal tool in the fight against microbial infections while offering innovative pathways for therapeutic advancements.