Development of Copper Nanoclusters for In Vitro and In Vivo Theranostic Applications

Abstract

Theranostics refers to the incorporation of therapeutic and diagnostic functions into one material system. An important class of nanomaterials exploited for theranostics is metal nanoclusters (NCs). In contrast to gold and silver NCs, copper is an essential trace element for humans. It can be more easily removed from the body. This, along with the low cost of copper that offers potential large‐scale nanotechnology applications, means that copper NCs have attracted great interest in recent years. The latest advances in the design, synthesis, surface engineering, and applications of copper NCs in disease diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment are reviewed. Strategies to control and enhance the emission of copper NCs are considered. With this synopsis of the up‐to‐date development of copper NCs as theranostic agents, it is hoped that insights and directions for translating current advances from the laboratory to the clinic can be further advanced and accelerated.

Copper nanoclusters: designed synthesis, structural diversity, and multiplatform applications

“…A recent review by Rogach and co-workers summarizes the theranostic applications of CuNCs both in vitro and in vivo platforms. 411 Moving forward, Fuping Gao et al 40 have demonstrated the applicability of radiolabelled 64 Cu-BSA-CuNCs as an efficient and sensitive radiotracer for PET imaging. The bioconjugation of LHRH receptor peptide to the clusters ensured the effective deposition and clearance from the tumour in vivo.…”

Copper Clusters: An Effective Antibacterial for Eradicating Multidrug‐Resistant Bacterial Infection In Vitro and In Vivo

“…Excess copper in the body can be easily eliminated. [20] And it was reported that copper clusters had good biosafety. [21] Although the bactericidal mechanisms of nanometallic materials were related to the release of metal ions and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), it is still unclear whether ROS is a cause or consequence of bacterial death.…”

“…Excess copper in the body can be easily eliminated. [ 20 ] And it was reported that copper clusters had good biosafety. [ 21 ]…”

The Coppery Age: Copper (Cu)‐Involved Nanotheranostics

“…[48,49] On this ground, it has been well demonstrated that Cu-based nanoagents feature photothermal-conversion performance for near infrared (NIR)-induced photonic tumor hyperthermia, especially including Cu-based chalcogenides (e.g., CuS, Cu 9 S 5 , Cu 2−x Se). [50][51][52] Especially, copper also possesses redox reactivity and easy replacement with other metals. Therefore, it can be developed as the catalyst for triggering specific catalytic reactions aiming to produce some reactive products for therapeutic purposes, such as the typical reactive oxygen species (ROS).…”