M. Shivakumar, Sanjay Jayaram, Madhuchandra Kenchegowda, Riyaz Ali M. Osmani, Mohamed Rahamathulla, Shilpa Palaksha, Rutuja Harishchandra Yadav, H.V. Gangadharappa
Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are anionic clays composed of positively charged metal hydroxide layers intercalated with charge-balancing anions. These inorganic nanomaterials have attracted significant attention due to their tunable physicochemical properties, high anion exchange capacity, and structural versatility, making them valuable in various chemical and biomedical applications. This review explores LDH synthesis techniques, including co-precipitation, sol-gel, ion exchange, and mechanochemical approaches, highlighting their ability to engineer controlled pore structures and tailored functionalities. Their applications extend beyond nanomedicine, including catalysis, polymer composites, environmental remediation, and targeted drug delivery. LDH-based nanocomposites demonstrate promising potential for cancer therapy, gene delivery, biosensing, and tissue engineering, offering advantages such as biocompatibility, low toxicity, and structural memory effects. Furthermore, we discuss emerging interdisciplinary applications, including LDH-polymer hybrids, enzyme immobilization, and smart nanocarriers for controlled release. The review concludes with future perspectives on developing LDH-based functional materials for sustainable chemistry, biomedical advancements, and catalysis. Graphical Abstract