Engineering reduced graphene oxide hybrid nanocomposites for biomedicine: progress, challenges and emerging opportunities

Abstract Hybrid nanocomposites based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have emerged as a versatile class of multifunctional materials for advanced biomedical applications owing to their exceptional physicochemical properties, tunable surface chemistry, high surface area and improved biocompatibility. This review critically examines recent advances in the design, synthesis, functionalization and biomedical applications of rGO hybrid nanocomposites, emphasizing synergistic integration with polymers, metals, metal oxides, ceramics and biomolecules. The review discusses their applications in drug and gene delivery, cancer therapy, antimicrobial systems, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biosensing and bioimaging in detail. rGO hybrids exhibit high drug‐loading capacity, stimuli‐responsive release, enhanced cellular uptake, synergistic chemo‐photothermal effects, broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity, improved mechanical reinforcement and highly sensitive biosensing for real‐time diagnostics. Despite these advances, clinical translation remains constrained by concerns about long‐term toxicity, fabrication scalability and reproducibility, regulatory approval, and the lack of standardized biological evaluation protocols. Emerging trends, including stimuli‐responsive nanoplatforms, artificial‐intelligence‐assisted materials design, personalized theranostics, and sustainable manufacturing strategies, are also highlighted. Finally, the review identifies key research priorities to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and clinical implementation, underscoring the significant potential of rGO hybrid nanocomposites for next‐generation precision medicine and healthcare technologies. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.