Gold Nanoparticles for DNA/RNA-Based Diagnostics

Abstract

The remarkable physicochemical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have prompted development in exploring biomolecular interactions with AuNPs-containing systems, pursuing biomedical applications in diagnostics. Among these applications, AuNPs have been remarkably useful for the development of DNA/RNA detection and characterization systems for diagnostics, including systems suitable for point of need. Here, emphasis will be on available molecular detection schemes of relevant pathogens and their molecular characterization, genomic sequences associated with medical conditions (including cancer), mutation and polymorphism identification, and the quantification of gene expression.

Gold Nanoparticles for Diagnostics: Advances towards Points of Care

“…The use of AuNPs in colorimetric detection approaches has been widely explored and, due to the simplicity and portability, is the most capable for implementation in POC strategies [47,124,125]. POC based on AuNPs still are in its primary stages (prototype) of development and use at bedsides, physician's offices, healthcare facilities, and in remote care settings is so far limited [126].…”