Heterometallic nanomaterials: activity modulation, sensing, imaging and therapy.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Heterometallic nanomaterials (HMNMs) exhibit superior physicochemical properties and stability compared to monometallic materials.
• Synergistic effects between multiple metals in HMNMs drive their advanced applications.
• Existing reviews predominantly focus on preparation, morphology, and limited applications, necessitating a focus on activity modulation and broader uses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent advancements in activity modulation of HMNMs.
• To highlight the diverse applications of HMNMs in sensing, imaging, and therapy.
• To provide an outlook on future research directions for novel HMNM development.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on HMNMs.
• Analysis of property modulation through size, shape, composition, structure, and surface modification.
• Categorization of applications in sensing, imaging, and therapy.

Main Results:

• HMNMs' properties are tunable via physical and chemical modifications.
• HMNMs show significant potential in sensing various targets like ions, molecules, proteins, nucleic acids, and cancer cells.
• HMNMs are extensively applied in diverse imaging modalities and therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions:

• HMNMs possess tunable properties making them versatile for advanced applications.
• The review emphasizes the broad utility of HMNMs in sensing, imaging, and therapy.
• Further research into novel HMNMs is crucial for interdisciplinary scientific advancement.