Gold Nanostructures in Medicine and Biology

Abstract

Gold nanostructures with their unique properties (tunable surface chemistry, morphology, optical, and electronic properties) can be applied for a wide range of biological and medical applications. By using size- or shape-controlled preparation, specific surface modifications, and molecular targeting, it appears that the properties of gold nanostructures can be optimized for specific applications. Gold nanostructures are stable and relatively inert in bio-systems, leading to low reactogenicity, high biocompatibility, and general lack of toxicity. They can be applied for detection, diagnosis, and treatment of some diseases like cancers. In this chapter, some important applications of gold nanostructures including diagnostics (imaging), gene delivery/therapy, drug delivery, and cancer diagnosis/therapy are highlighted.