Recent Advances in Ferrite-Based Materials for Biomedical Applications: A Comprehensive Review.

Abstract

Ferrite-based nanomaterials have evolved from simple magnetic contrast agents into sophisticated, multifunctional platforms capable of actively regulating biological microenvironments. This comprehensive review critically examines the recent advances in the rational design of spinel and hexagonal ferrites, elucidating the fundamental structure-property-bioactivity relationships that govern their biomedical performance. We explore how atomic-level engineering, specifically cation distribution, defect modulation, and morphological anisotropy, can be manipulated to tailor magnetic susceptibility, catalytic activity (nanozymes), and specific absorption rates (SAR) for hyperthermia. Beyond traditional applications in MRI and drug delivery, we highlight emerging frontiers including viscosity-independent magnetic hyperthermia, ROS-mediated antimicrobial therapy, and magnetic tissue engineering (Mag-TE). Crucially, this review addresses the widening translational gap between high-performance laboratory prototypes and clinical reality. We critically analyze the barriers impeding commercialization, such as the discrepancy between colloidal and intracellular heating efficiency, the complexity of protein corona formation, and the challenges of scalable, GMP-compliant synthesis. Finally, we propose a future roadmap integrating AI-driven material discovery and green chemistry to develop next-generation magnetotheranostic systems, positioning ferrite nanoplatforms as central components in the future of precision medicine.