Nanomaterials against pathogenic viruses: greener and sustainable approaches

Abstract

Nanostructured materials and nanosystems have garnered attention against viral infections owing to their unique physicochemical properties such as significant catalytic activity, high physicochemical/thermal stability, large specific surface area, remarkable chemical reactivity, and strong electron transfer ability, etc. These materials are broadly fabricated through chemical, physical and biological methods. However, compared with energy-intensive conventional methods, greener and sustainable approaches are both economical and environmentally friendly. This review would delineate the pros and cons and critical issues pertaining to the deployment of sustainable and greener-synthesized nanomaterials endowed with their superior surface area, mechanical properties, significant chemical reactivity, cost-effectiveness, and low energy consumption against pathogenic viruses (e.g., HIV, Ebola, corona, hepatitis, Zika, West Nile and influenza). The benefits and challenges of green nanomedicine in treatment of viral infections and elimination of pathogenic viruses by applying biocompatible and safer nanomaterials and nanoarchitectures prepared from natural and renewable resources are covered. TOC Greener and sustainable approaches for synthesis of innovative functionalized nanomaterials, quantum dots, graphene oxide, nanocarriers, nanosensors and nanovaccines against pathogenic viruses, are discussed.