Probing Cells with Noble Metal Nanoparticle Aggregates

Abstract

This review focuses on the integration of noble metal nanoparticle aggregates as tags and transport vessels in cellular applications. The natural tendency of nanoparticles to aggregate can be reduced through surface modification; however, this stabilization is often compromised in the cellular environment. The degree of nanoparticle aggregation has both positive and negative consequences. Nanoparticle aggregates are more efficiently removed by the organism compared with single nanoparticles, preventing delivery to their cellular target. In addition, these aggregates are recognized by cells in different ways versus isolated nanoparticles. Despite these negatives, aggregates exhibit enhancement for many detection and treatment techniques in comparison with single nanoparticles. In coming years, the role of aggregates and better control over the degree of aggregation in cellular studies will be required for the realization of medical applications.

Keywords::

• cell imaging
• nanoparticle aggregation
• nanoparticle cytotoxicity
• noble metal nanoparticles
• photothermal therapy
• surface-enhanced Raman scattering

Financial & competing interests disclosure

We thank the University of Iowa for financial support. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

We thank the University of Iowa for financial support. The authors have no other relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript apart from those disclosed.