ABSTRACT
Gold colloids have fascinated scientists for over a century and are now heavily utilized in chemistry, biology, engineering, and medicine. Today these materials can be synthesized reproducibly, modified with seemingly limitless chemical functional groups, and, in certain cases, characterized with atomic-level precision. This chapter highlights recent advances in the synthesis, bioconjugation, and cellular uses of gold nanoconjugates. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have a rich history in chemistry, dating back to ancient Roman times where they were used to stain glasses for decorative purposes. Reliable and high-yielding methods for the synthesis of AuNPs, including those with spherical and nonspherical shapes, have been developed over the last half-century. The chapter describes the current status of gold nanoconjugates for cellular and therapeutic uses. It focuses on chemical synthesis, physical and chemical properties, as well as investigations and applications in cells.
