ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Current and emerging frontiers in biologically synthesized gold nanoparticles: an in-depth review

Amanullakhan Pathan, Tanvi Nayak, Saeed Alshahrani, Rina Tripathi, and Pankaj Tripathi

Shri Sarvajanik Science College (PG), Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University, Mehsana, India

E-mail: amankhan255@gmail.com

Abstract:

Nanomaterials have recently gained popularity due to their numerous uses in the fields of biology, medicine, electronics, and agriculture. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death and illness worldwide. Metallic nanoparticles, particularly gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), have gained attention as promising systems to reduce the negative effects of conventional treatments. Due to their unique characteristics, such as adjustable size, shape, composition, optical properties, biocompatibility, low toxicity, multivalency, fluorescence-luminescence capabilities, and surface plasmon resonance, AuNPs show potential as drug delivery systems. The utilization of microorganisms has emerged as a reliable, sustainable, and ecologically friendly technique for nanosynthesis through the biogenic synthesis strategy. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have emerged as a promising avenue for addressing a diverse array of medicinal challenges. The biogenic synthesis of AuNPs is an environmentally sustainable process that effectively reduces the generation of hazardous chemicals and poisonous byproducts. Metal nanoparticles have been widely employed in numerous medical applications. AuNPs are one of them, and it has been widely reported that they have led an incredible response. Most of the gold nanoparticles are produced by the enzymatic breakdown of metal ions. Nanoparticles possess broad use in various medical domains, encompassing medicine and gene delivery, photothermal therapy (PTT), photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiation therapy (RT), diagnostics, X-ray imaging, computed tomography (CT), and other biological activities. However, it is important to note that there is currently a lack of comprehensive research that consolidates the medicinal applications of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Consequently, this study undertakes a meticulous assessment of the biological approaches to synthesizing AuNPs, ways for modifying and characterizing them, their therapeutic applications, and specific biological activities. The aim is to provide a valuable resource for future research endeavors.

Keywords: Biomimetic Synthesis; Bionanoelectronics; Nanomedicine and Nanotoxicology; Nanoparticle Synthesis; Nanobiotechnology; Nanoparticles

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-03952-6

Chemical Papers 79 (6) 3421–3442 (2025)