Radiolabeled 2D graphitic nanomaterials and their possibility for molecular imaging applications

Radiolabeled 2D graphitic nanomaterials and their possibility for molecular imaging applications

In recent years, many researchers have attempted to make use of 2D nanoparticles as molecular imaging probes since extensive investigations proved that 2D nanoparticles in the body tends to accumulate certain lesions by enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. For example, graphene and carbon nitride which have high surface area and modifiable properties showed good biocompatibility and targetability when it used as imaging probes. However, poor dispersibility in physiological mediums and its uncontrolled size limited its usage in bio-application. Therefore, oxidation process and mechanical exfoliation have been developed for overcoming these problems. In this paper, we highlight the several major methods to synthesize biocompatible 2D nanomaterials like graphene and carbon nitride especially for molecular imaging study including positron emission tomography (PET).