The potential of copper oxide nanoparticles in nanomedicine: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Nanotechnology is a modern scientific discipline that uses nanoparticles of metals like copper, silver, gold, platinum, and zinc for various applications. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are effective in biomedical settings, such as killing bacteria, speeding up reactions, stopping cancer cells, and coating surfaces. These inorganic nanostructures have a longer shelf life than their organic counterparts and are chemically inert and thermally stable. However, commercial synthesis of NPs often involves harmful byproducts and hazardous chemicals. Green synthesis for CuONPs offers numerous benefits, including being clean, harmless, economical, and environmentally friendly. Using naturally occurring organisms like bacteria, yeast, fungi, algae, and plants can make CuONPs more environmentally friendly. CuONPs are expected to be used in nanomedicine due to their potent antimicrobial properties and disinfecting agents for infectious diseases. This comprehensive review looks to evaluate research articles published in the last ten years that investigate the antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, wound healing, dental application and catalytic properties of copper nanoparticles generated using biological processes. Utilising the scientific approach of large-scale data analytics. However, their toxic effects on vertebrates and invertebrates raise concerns about their use for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Therefore, biocompatibility and non-toxicity are crucial for selecting nanoparticles for clinical research.