Strategies for the biofunctionalization of gold and iron oxide nanoparticles

The field of nanotechnology applied to medicine (nanomedicine) is developing at a fast pace and is expected to provide solutions for early diagnosis, targeted therapy, and personalized medicine. However, designing nanomaterials for biomedical applications is not a trivial task. Avoidance of the immune system, stability in physiological media, control over the interaction of a nanomaterial with biological entities such as proteins and cell membranes, low toxicity, and optimal bioperformance are critical for the success of the designed nanomaterial. In this Feature Article we provide a concise overview of some of the most recent advances concerning the derivatization of gold and iron oxide nanoparticles for bioapplications. The most important aspects relating to the functionalization of gold and iron oxide nanoparticles with carbohydrates, peptides, nucleic acids, and antibodies are covered, highlighting the recent contributions from our research group. We suggest tips for the appropriate (bio)functionalization of these inorganic nanoparticles in order to preserve the biological activity of the attached biomolecules and ensure their subsequent stability in physiological media.