Nanodiamond: innovative class of multifunctional nanosystems

The continued search for the optimization of a versatile and efficient drug carrier is catalyzing multidisciplinary efforts that integrate diagnosis and delivery of therapeutic agents. Nanodiamonds (NDs) are versatile nanocomposite which exhibit excellent mechanical and optical properties, high surface areas, tunable surface structures and low toxicity. These advantageous properties make them well suited to a wide range of potential applications in tribology, drug delivery, bioimaging, tissue engineering, and also as protein mimics and a filler material for nanocomposites. This review provides an overview of the synthesis technique and surface functionalization of NDs. Advanced research on NDs as platform for a host of biomedical applications are also described.