Metal-phenolic networks in biomedical applications

Metal-phenolic networks (MPNs) are dynamic cross-linked network structures formed by metal ions and polyphenolic compounds through coordinate bonding, non-covalent interactions and other intermolecular interactions. MPNs offer several advantages, including environmentally friendly and straightforward synthesis, tunable composition and functionality, excellent biocompatibility, and multifunctional integration. In recent years, MPNs have shown great potential in biomedical applications, particularly in the treatment of disease. Despite their extensive applications in disease therapy, there is still a lack of a comprehensive and timely systematic summary covering the composition, formation mechanisms, synthetic strategies, and therapeutic applications of MPNs in disease treatment. An understanding of the formation mechanisms and functional properties of MPNs will facilitate their further development and application as potential future therapeutics. This review focuses on the key components, formation mechanisms, synthetic strategies and functional properties of MPNs, systematically summarizing the latest advances in their biomedical applications including drug delivery, tumor therapy, antibacterial therapy, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, as well as the treatment of neurological disorders. Furthermore, the current challenges faced by MPNs in biomedical research and future research directions are also discussed and prospected.