Graphene nanoribbons: A state-of-the-art in health care.

Graphene nanoribbons are thin strips of single sheet graphene used in diagnoses and treatments of cancer, inflammation and Alzheimer's disease and considered as a good nanocarrier in gene, photo-thermal, anti-microbial therapies, etc. This review article focuses on the overview of bio-conjugation and molecular interaction of graphene nanoribbons with different biomolecules present in body like enzymes and peptides. The use of graphene nanoribbons as biosensor, artificial receptor and cellular device extends their applications in theranostic and drug delivery. The relationship between graphene and biological molecules like RNA, DNA, etc. using molecular dynamics related to the electronic properties are discussed for site-specific action. The biodegradation and use of graphene nanoribbons in safe concentration are important aspects for the prevention of toxicity in living cells and body environment. Graphene nanoribbons display various applications in bio-imaging, green chemistry and material sciences due to electro-mechanical properties such as higher surface area, greater loading capacity, elevated thermal capacity, etc. The functionalized graphene nanoribbons demonstrated better adsorption and adhesive binding properties to mammalian cells which make them ideal bio-carrier for gene transfection and nucleic acid delivery. Further, research and development of graphene nanoribbons for novel drug delivery is currently necessary to overcome barriers like environmental toxicity and extensive cost.