Atomically Precise Water-Soluble Gold Nanoclusters: Synthesis and Biomedical Application

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Chemistry

Background:

• Water-soluble gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) are emerging as versatile nanomaterials.
• Their ultrasmall size, photoluminescence, biocompatibility, and low toxicity are advantageous.
• Au NCs offer well-defined atomic structures for studying structure-performance relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the synthesis of water-soluble Au NCs.
• To summarize recent advancements in biomedical applications of Au NCs.
• To discuss the influence of ligand and size on biomedical properties.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on synthesis and biomedical applications of Au NCs.
• Analysis of structure-performance correlations in biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and excretion.
• Detailed examination of ligand and size effects on biomedical properties.

Main Results:

• Gold nanoclusters demonstrate significant potential in bioimaging, biosensing, and biotherapy.
• Ligand choice and cluster size critically influence biodistribution and pharmacokinetic profiles.
• Well-defined atomic structures facilitate understanding of in vivo behavior.

Conclusions:

• Water-soluble Au NCs are promising theranostic tools.
• Further research into ligand and size optimization can enhance their biomedical utility.
• Advances in Au NCs are expected to expand their clinical applications.