Non-spherical nanostructures in nanomedicine: From noble metal nanorods to transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheets

Non-spherical metal nanomaterials such as noble metal or transition metal dichalcogenides and MXenes have been employed in different biomedical facets. Because the biological properties of these nanocompounds are governed by their architecture and composition, such factors should be considered prior to their adoption for clinical use. The architecture of metal-based nanomaterials affects cell viability by virtue of the variable geometry of these nanomaterials as well as their physicochemical interactions with mammalian cell membranes. In the present review, the effects of parameters such as interfacial interaction and aspect ratio on cellular uptake of non-spherical metallic nanomaterials will be discussed. The application of these nanomaterials as biosensors, in cancer diagnosis and therapy, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine will also be thoroughly reviewed.