Synthesis and Characterization of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications: Techniques and Future Prospects

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have attracted significant interest for biomedical applications due to their exceptional physicochemical properties, biocompatibility, and multifunctional capabilities. The review delves into the synthesis, characterization, and biomedical applicability of ZnO NPs, with emphasis on drug delivery, bioimaging, wound healing, antibacterial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer applications. Different synthesis methods, such as co-precipitation, sol-gel, hydrothermal, microemulsion, and microwave-assisted methods, are reviewed with emphasis on their impact on the morphology and functionality of NPs. The selective toxicity of ZnO NPs toward cancer cells, drug bioavailability enhancement, and antimicrobial activities make them valuable candidates for advanced therapeutic applications. Despite these benefits, toxicity issues, biocompatibility, and the limitations of mass production need to be overcome for clinical translation. The future research should emphasize the optimization of nanoparticle formulations, enhance safety profiles, and incorporate artificial intelligence for precision medicine applications. As nanotechnology continues to advance, ZnO NPs have enormous potential to transform contemporary medicine by providing novel solutions for targeted drug delivery and disease management.