Self-Assembly Strategies in Upconversion Nanoparticle-Based Nanocomposites: Structure Designs and Applications
Zhen Zhang1,2,3, Xiaoyu Ji1, Weijia Huang1
1PCFM Lab, Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Centre for Functional Biomaterials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|September 13, 2025
Summary
Self-assembly offers a versatile method to create advanced nanocomposites using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs). These UCNP-based materials show promise in imaging, sensing, and targeted therapies.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Chemistry
Background:
- Self-assembly is a key bottom-up strategy for creating complex nanostructures.
- Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) are crucial building blocks for multifunctional nanocomposites.
- Integrating UCNPs with other nanomaterials via self-assembly offers advantages over traditional methods like epitaxial growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of self-assembly methodologies for UCNP-based nanocomposites.
- To highlight the diverse applications of these nanohybrids.
- To discuss current challenges and future directions in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of self-assembly techniques including electrostatic, hydrophobic, covalent, and biorecognition interactions.
- Analysis of structure-function relationships in UCNP-based nanohybrids.
- Compilation of recent studies showcasing technological potential.
Main Results:
- Self-assembly enables modular integration of UCNPs with various functional nanomaterials.
- Resultant nanohybrids exhibit diverse morphologies and functionalities.
- Applications span multimodal imaging, bioimaging, biosensing, drug delivery, and programmable therapy.
Conclusions:
- Self-assembled UCNP nanocomposites offer significant potential for advanced applications.
- Addressing challenges in stability, reproducibility, and functional integration is crucial for future development.
- Continued research in self-assembly methodologies will drive innovation in UCNP-based materials.
