Mimicking nature: Nanoflowers as novel materials for biomedical applications

Vast advances in nanobiotechnology have been attributed to nanoflowers as some of the most promising materials. Nanoflowers are flower-like nanomaterials that possess a higher surface-area-to-volume ratio compared to other nanoparticle morphologies. Synthesis of complex nanostructures is of great importance for nanotechnology. Nanoflowers can easily be fabricated via physical and chemical methods, making them ideal candidates for various biomedical applications. Precise control of reaction time, size and structure can influence the stability and biocompatibility of final synthesis products and thus their use. Organic, inorganic and hybrid nanoflowers can be fabricated quickly and cost-effectively, resulting in a variety of nanomaterials. Utilization of nanoflowers in biosensor platforms for detection of biomarkers, toxins, microbes and other analytes has been extensively described in the literature. Due to their morphology and enhanced surface area, they can also be an ideal site for drug or gene conjugation, for drug delivery and personalized medicine. Nanoflowers can induce angiogenesis, neuritogenesis and osteoblast growth and thus can play a vital role in tissue engineering. Biocatalysis, antimicrobial activity, nanotheranostics, cosmetics and treatment of diseases are also among other areas of interest. In this review, fabrication, morphologies and applications of nanoflowers in various areas of biomedicine are addressed. Current and future trends are discussed, while emphasis is also given to biocompatibility and nanotoxicity of these structures.