Graphitic Carbon Nitride-Based Materials: Applications in Medical Diagnostics, Therapeutics, and Combined Cancer Therapies

Abstract

Graphite carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) has emerged as a new kind of two-dimensional conjugated polymer. Ever since the pioneering work regarding photocatalytic water splitting under visible-light illumination in 2009, g-C₃N₄ has revealed wide-ranging application possibilities across numerous domains, like photoelectrocatalysis, photodegradation, energy-related technologies, environmental cleanup, and sensing. As science and technology have advanced, its remarkable photoelectrical properties and biocompatibility have gained increasing recognition. In recent times, the employment of g-C₃N₄ within the biomedical domain has garnered considerable interest. This review comprehensively compiles the strategies for the synthesis and modification of g-C₃N₄-based materials, highlighting the consequences of six unique modification techniques. Additionally, the characterization and properties of these materials are presented. This review is dedicated to exploring the up-to-date developments of g-C₃N₄-based materials applied in the biomedical field, with particular emphasis on their emerging roles in diagnostic imaging, disease treatment, disease detection, and combination therapies for cancer. Furthermore, this investigation conducts a thorough discussion regarding the assessments of the biosafety and toxicity of g-C₃N₄-based substances. Simultaneously, it undertakes an exploration of the present challenges and forthcoming trends in this area of study.