Plasmonic nanoparticles in biomedicine

The use of plasmonic nanoparticles for biomedical applications has been extensively researched, yielding significant advancements in the construction of ultrasensitive bioassays and effective therapy. The unique surface plasmon resonance phenomena of both plasmonic films and nanoparticles with their exceptional absorption and scattering abilities have much potential in revolutionising diagnosis, treatment and evaluation of diseases, in particular cancer. In this review, an overview of recent advancements of plasmonic nanoparticles in the fields of bioassays and therapy is provided, with an emphasis on the mechanisms by which the plasmonic nanoparticles can be employed to enhance or provide signals for the detection of bioanalytes or to treat diseases. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.