Gold Nanoparticles: Synthesis Methods, Functionalization and Biological Applications

Nanotechnology has vast applications in medicine and biomedical engineering like tissue engineering, diagnosis, and therapy. Nowadays incorporation of functionalized nanostructures in various biomedical applications has generated considerable research interest. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are one of the most stable metal nanoparticles with unique physicochemical properties and are reflected as a promising candidate for widespread biological applications. Among different synthesis methods, biological synthesis methods are advantageous as it reduces the need for toxic chemicals for reduction purpose. Surface functionalization provides colloidal stability to gold nanoparticles which are achieved by using various materials. This review mainly focuses on the biological applications of AuNPs such as bioimaging, biosensing, anticancer therapy, drug delivery, hyperthermia, and antimicrobial activity. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) related optical properties are used for biosensing and bioimaging applications for diagnosis to detect pathogens as well as biomarkers. Biomolecules and drug functionalized AuNPs are effectively used to treat various cancer and other diseases. Thus, the study of gold nanoparticles opens a new percept in the biological field for varieties of applications.

Automated summary

Nanotechnology has wide applications in medicine and biomedical engineering. Gold nanoparticles are stable and have unique properties, making them useful in various biological applications. Biological synthesis methods reduce the use of toxic chemicals. Functionalized gold nanoparticles are used in bioimaging, biosensing, anticancer therapy, drug delivery, and antimicrobial activity. The study of gold nanoparticles opens up new possibilities in the field of biology.