Thermally Conductive Biopolymers in Regenerative Medicine and Oncology: A Systematic Review

Background: Minimally invasive hyperthermia and regenerative therapies require materials that deliver precise, localized heat without compromising biocompatibility. Most conventional polymers are thermally insulating and challenging to control in vivo, motivating this review. Objectives: We aimed to (i) examine the use of thermally enhanced biopolymers in hyperthermia-based therapies, (ii) appraise evidence from clinical and preclinical studies, (iii) identify and classify principal applications in regenerative medicine. Methods: A PRISMA-guided systematic review (2020–2025) with predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria was conducted and complemented by a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer for mapping and visualization. Results: Modifying biopolymers—via functionalization with photothermal or magnetic nanoagents (Au; Fe₂O₃/Fe₃O₄/CoFe₂O₄; CuS; Ag; MXenes, e.g., Nb₂C), crosslinking strategies, and hybrid formulations—significantly increased thermal conductivity, enabling localized hyperthermia and controlled drug release. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that europium-doped iron oxide nanoparticles embedded in chitosan generated heat efficiently while sparing healthy tissues, underscoring the need to balance biocompatibility and thermal performance. Hydrogel systems enriched with carbon nanomaterials (graphene, carbon nanotubes) and matrices such as GelMA, PNIPAM, hyaluronic acid, and PLA/PLGA demonstrated tissue compatibility and effective thermal behavior; graphene was compatible with neural tissue without inducing inflammation. Conclusions: Thermally conductive biopolymers show growing potential for oncology and regenerative medicine. The evidence supports further academic and interdisciplinary research to optimize safety, performance, and translational pathways.