Surface-Engineered Magnetoluminescent Nanomaterials for Bone Regeneration and Cancer Theranostics: A Critical Review of Functional Coatings and Biointerfaces

Magnetoluminescent nanomaterials (MLNPs) integrate magnetic and luminescent components for imaging, delivery, and externally controlled interventions. For bone regeneration, their proposed value lies in combining monitoring with magnetic guidance or stimulation during repair. This critical review evaluates how silica and mesoporous silica shells, polymers, core–shell and Janus architectures, and surface ligands affect emission, magnetic response, colloidal stability, loading, and biological interactions. Bone-relevant evidence remains limited and heterogeneous: reported outcomes range from cell tracking and labeling compatibility to material bioactivity, cellular osteogenesis-related responses, and peri-implant bone formation. These endpoints are evaluated separately, and interface-related effects are interpreted in relation to composition, architecture, and testing conditions. Designs developed for cancer imaging and therapy provide complementary evidence requiring dedicated regenerative validation. Recommended priorities are to define the intended monitoring or repair benefit, verify function in the final scaffold or delivery format, establish added value with matched controls, and follow osteogenic, vascular, and immune responses alongside component fate throughout healing. Translation also requires clinically feasible exposure, sterilization compatibility, and reproducible manufacture. Biological magnetic–photonic synergy requires appropriate stimulation controls and interaction analysis, while adaptive control remains a prospective research objective.