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Synthesis of Near-Infrared Emitting Gold Nanoclusters for Biological Applications
Published on: March 22, 2020
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Biomolecule-protected gold nanoclusters: synthesis and biomedical applications
Dongzhao Hao1, Xuelin Zhang1, Rongxin Su1,2,3,4
1Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, P. R. China. wangyuefei@tju.edu.cn.
Journal of Materials Chemistry. B
|May 23, 2023
Summary
Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs), synthesized using biomolecules, show promise for biomedical applications. These stable nanoparticles offer unique properties for bioimaging, therapy, and drug delivery, paving the way for future medical innovations.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) are highly stable nanomaterials (<2 nm) with exceptional physicochemical properties and biocompatibility.
- Their unique characteristics make them attractive for diverse biomedical applications.
- Biomolecules serve as effective templates for synthesizing AuNCs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the synthesis of AuNCs utilizing biomolecular templates.
- To discuss recent advancements in AuNCs for bioimaging, disease therapy, and drug delivery.
- To propose future research directions for bio-template AuNCs in medicine.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of AuNCs using proteins, peptides, DNA, and polysaccharides as templates.
- Review of current research on the applications of AuNCs in bioimaging.
- Review of current research on the applications of AuNCs in disease therapy and drug delivery.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful synthesis of AuNCs using various biomolecules.
- Highlighted significant progress in utilizing AuNCs for enhanced bioimaging.
- Showcased the potential of AuNCs in disease treatment and targeted drug delivery.
Conclusions:
- Bio-template gold nanoclusters represent a versatile platform for advanced biomedical applications.
- Continued research is expected to further establish AuNCs as essential tools in medicine.
- The unique properties of AuNCs synthesized via biomolecular templating hold great promise for future healthcare solutions.

