Carbohydrate research ·10 Nov 2026 ·Added 12 Nov 2026

Next-generation nanocellulose-based smart biomaterials: advances, functionalization strategies, and sustainable biomedical applications.

Great Iruoghene Edo, Esther Eghogho Omoathebu, Joshua Othuke Orogu, Irene Ebosereme Ainyanbhor, Raghda S Makia, Ephraim Evi Alex Oghroro, Joseph Oghenewogaga Owheruo, Emad Yousif, Agatha Ngukuran Jikah, Patrick Othuke Akpoghelie, Arthur Efeoghene Athan Essaghah, Ibiyinka Agboola Fuwape, Huzaifa Umar, Dina S Ahmed, Ahmed A Alamiery, Musa A Said

DOI ↗

Abstract

Nanocellulose has emerged as a versatile platform for smart biomaterials because of its high mechanical strength, tunable surface chemistry, and biocompatibility. These properties have supported its incorporation into a wide range of biomedical materials, but many conventional nanocellulose-based systems remain predominantly passive, functioning mainly as structural or supporting components. The growing interest in smart biomaterials reflects the need for materials that can respond to changes in their environment and thereby provide more dynamic control over biomedical functions. This review examines the transition of cellulose nanocrystals, cellulose nanofibrils, and bacterial nanocellulose towards responsive and potentially adaptive biomedical platforms. The structural and molecular characteristics underlying responses to chemical, physical and electromechanical stimuli are examined, together with their application in responsive biomedical systems. Attention is also given to the sustainability-performance trade-off arising when chemical modification, synthetic polymers, or inorganic nanomaterials are introduced to increase functionality, as well as to translational barriers related to material variability, biological stability, reproducibility, safety and standardisation. Finally, emerging approaches based on synthetic biology, genetic engineering and artificial intelligence/machine learning are examined for their potential to improve the predictability and programmability of nanocellulose production and design. By relating material structure and processing to responsiveness, biomedical function, sustainability, and translational potential, this review highlights the opportunities and limitations that will shape the progression of smart nanocellulose from proof-of-concept materials towards clinically relevant biomedical platforms.