Recent Trends in Biomedical Applications of Cu₂MX₄-Based Nanocomposites: An Updated Review

Recent advancements in Cu₂MX₄ (CMX)-based nanocomposites have garnered significant attention in the biomedical field due to their exceptional structural, optical, electrical, and catalytic properties. In this review, recent developments regarding the synthesis, properties, and applications of CMX nanostructures in biomedicine, along with their high versatility and functionality, are discussed in detail. The various synthesis techniques, such as hydrothermal, solvothermal, and chemical vapour deposition methods and their influence on the properties of nanomaterials for therapeutic and diagnostic applications are also discussed. CMX-based nanocomposites cover highly important biomedical applications, including drug delivery, photothermal and photodynamic therapies, bioimaging, and antimicrobial activity. For the applications in targeted and controlled drug delivery, CMX, therefore, provides an efficient pathway to improve therapeutic efficiency while reducing adverse effects. The high photothermal conversion efficiency also makes this material beneficial for cancer therapies. The inherent fluorescence and magnetic properties of these agents may be beneficial in advanced bioimaging techniques. The good antimicrobial efficacy of CMX materials opens new avenues for combating microbial resistance. Mechanistic insights into cellular interactions, oxidative stress induction, and catalytic activities help provide a deeper understanding of the functions of these nanostructures in biological systems. Along with many future awaiting applications, toxicity, scalability, physico-stability, and regulatory issues are critical hurdles that need to be addressed for clinical translation to occur with CMX-based nanocomposite. The future aspects of enhancing the synthesis route, biocompatibility, and leveraging interdisciplinary approaches to optimize these materials for biomedical applications are also discussed. The unique multifunctionality of Cu₂MX₄ positions it as a next-generation nanomaterial, and this review provides timely insights to accelerate its translation from laboratory research to real-world biomedical applications.