Gold Nanoclusters as High Resolution NIR-II Theranostic Agents

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Biomedical Imaging
• Optical Spectroscopy

Background:

• Atomically precise quasi-molecular gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) possess unique, stable, and tunable optical properties.
• Structure-engineering of AuNCs modulates surface electronic states for long-wavelength photoluminescence, especially in the NIR-II window (1000-1700 nm).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the origin of NIR-II emission in rationally designed AuNCs.
• To discuss the application of AuNCs in high-resolution imaging and tumor theranostics.
• To highlight challenges and future scope for clinical translation of AuNCs.

Main Methods:

• Discussion of structure-property relationships in AuNCs for NIR-II emission.
• Review of applications in high-resolution imaging of vasculature, tissues, and pathological conditions.
• Summary of recent advancements in AuNCs for tumor theranostics.

Main Results:

• AuNCs exhibit tunable NIR-II emission, enabling enhanced optical imaging with higher resolution and deeper tissue penetration.
• NIR-II emitting AuNCs facilitate real-time in vivo imaging for disease progression monitoring.
• AuNCs are increasingly employed in tumor theranostics, combining diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Rationally designed AuNCs are powerful tools for advanced biomedical imaging and theranostics.
• Further improvements in optical properties and addressing challenges are crucial for clinical translation.
• AuNCs hold significant potential to revolutionize optical imaging and disease management.