Abstract The rapid evolution of nanotechnology has opened up transformative opportunities in biomedical diagnostics and therapeutics. Recently, a surge of research has underscored the remarkable progress achieved by bismuth-based nanomaterials in areas such as biomedical imaging, antibacterial therapy, and anticancer interventions, owing to their straightforward synthesis, excellent biocompatibility, and unique physicochemical attributes derived from their distinctive atomic structure. Consequently, bismuth-based nanomaterials are emerging as highly promising candidates for biomedical applications. This review comprehensively summarizes the state-of-the-art fabrication techniques for bismuth-based nanomaterials, investigates light-activated theranostic approaches, and evaluates the key factors influencing their therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, it highlights the emerging biomedical potential of these nanomaterials and discusses prospective future development directions informed by recent advancements in the field. By providing critical insights, this research not only expands the application landscape of bismuth-based nanomaterials but also offers valuable guidance for designing high-performance, multifunctional nanosystems. Ultimately, it aims to accelerate the discovery of innovative nanomaterials that meet the growing demands for sustainable and health-focused solutions.
Han et al. (Mon,) studied this question.