Biomimetic gold nanomaterials for biosensing, bioimaging and biotherapy: a mini-review

Abstract

Gold nanomaterials (AuNMs) have different morphologies, such as nanoparticles (NPs), nanorods (NRs), and nanoclusters (NCs). Due to their unique structures and properties, AuNMs have exhibited broad application prospects in biosensing, bioimaging, and biotherapy. Different from the traditional synthesis methods, biomimetic synthesis can create functional nanomaterials that meet the needs by imitating the internal harmony process or natural structure. Biomimetic synthesis can simplify the synthesis steps and improve the yield of nanomaterials. In this work, we present recent advances in the biomimetic synthesis of various AuNMs, and their potential applications for biosensing of analytes, bioimaging of cells, and the therapy of tumors. In this direction, we first introduce and discuss the studies on the biomimetic synthesis and the properties of AuNMs. Then, case studies on the utilization of AuNMs for the fabrication of biosensors, and the design of functional AuNMs for bioimaging and biotherapy of cancers are carried out. This mini-review will help readers understand the methods of biomimetic synthesis of AuNMs and their potential applications in various fields, while providing new inspirations for optimal design and synthesis of AuNMs with enhanced properties and functions.