Recent progress of carbon-based quantum dots and nanotubes for cancer targeting and drug delivery applications

Cancer remains a major global health challenge, driving extensive research into developing advanced nano systems for precise and effective drug delivery. Carbon-based nanomaterials, particularly carbon nanotubes and quantum dots, have gained prominence due to their exceptional structural and physicochemical properties. These nanomaterials offer significant advantages, including high drug-loading capacity, enhanced biocompatibility, and reduced immunogenicity, making them highly promising candidates for cancer therapy. This review provides a detailed examination of the synthesis and functionalization of carbon nanostructures, highlighting recent advancements in their use for cancer drug delivery. Also, it analyzes their potential to improve therapeutic outcomes through targeted delivery mechanisms while addressing the challenges associated with their clinical translation. Furthermore, the review explores the prospects, challenges, and future directions of carbon nanotubes and quantum dots, focusing on their integration into clinical applications for cancer treatment.