Hybrid nanoparticles are nanoscale particles that are composed by interaction between the different components, resulting in enhanced properties that can be harnessed for wide range of application across fields like medicine, electronics energy, and more. These nanoparticles are typically in the size range from 1-100 nanometers, which is advantageous. Because at this scale, they often exhibit novel behavior due to their quantum and surface effects. The choice of material and the way they are combined can be tailored to achieve specific goals. For example, in biomedical applications, hybrid nanoparticles can be engineered to have specific targeting abilities such as targeted drug delivery, theranostics, gene therapy, phototherapy, tissue regeneration, vaccines, antibacterial, biomolecules detection, imaging probes, tissue engineering, biosensing, and cancer treatment. They have enhanced qualities with increased target specificity and sensitivity, extended circulation times, and resistance to biological barriers.
Top1. Introduction
Nanohybrids are composite materials consisting of two or more different nanoscale components, each with distinct properties and functions (Park et al., 2020). The term “hybrid” is derived from the Latin “hybrida” first originated in the English language in the 17th century. Experiments in Plant Hybridization, reported by Gregor Mendel in 1865, ignited a scientific revolution in the field of hybridization. True hybrid nano systems containing inorganic and organic structural components were. reported regarding synthesis of nanoscale silica-polymer hybrid sphere (Bagheri et al., 2018).
The initial groundwork for nanotechnology began during the period of 1970s - 1980s. Scientists explored the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, including nanoparticles of various compositions (Shnoudeh et al., 2019). In 1990s, research in nanotechnology gained momentum. The potential of nanoparticles for drug delivery, imaging, and diagnostic applications due to their unique size-dependent properties was explored. Early 2000s nanohybrids started gaining attention as researchers sought to combine different nanomaterials to exploit their synergistic properties (Sahoo et al., 2023). Initial studies focused on creating hybrid structures to enhance drug delivery systems and imaging agents.
From the Mid-2000s, studies demonstrated the advantages of hybrid nanoparticles in biomedical applications. Core-shell structures, combining metals, polymers, and organic materials, emerged as promising candidates for targeted drug delivery and imaging (Wang et al., 2017). Early 2010s scientists began fine-tuning the fabrication methods of nanohybrids to optimize their properties. Surface functionalization and modification techniques were explored to improve biocompatibility, stability, and targeting capabilities. Further, in Mid-2010s advancements in nanotechnology, biomaterials, and surface chemistry led to more sophisticated nanohybrid designs. Responsive nanohybrids capable of stimuli-triggered drug release and targeted therapies began to emerge (Alwattar et al., 2021).
Moreover, research continued to focus on addressing challenges such as scalability, toxicity, and clinical translation. Notable advancements included the development of multifunctional nanohybrids for combination therapies, regenerative medicine, and highly sensitive biosensing applications (Seaberg et al., 2021). Ongoing research efforts aimed at improving the understanding of nanohybrid interactions within biological systems, optimizing their performance, and paving the way for clinical application.
Around the turn of the 21st Century, the development of hybrid nano systems expanded greatly through the hybridization of silica with micelles, liposomes, and polymers along with the introduction of polymer-functionalized metallic nanoparticles (Nik Mohd Adnan, 2018). The combination of these components in a nanohybrid material often results in enhanced properties, improved functionality, and expanded applications. Nanohybrids encompass a diverse range of structures that combine different nanomaterials, offering a wide array of functionalities. Here are some common types of nanohybrids used in various biomedical applications (Bohara, 2019).