Ultrasmall Metal Nanoclusters: Multifunctional Materials Used in Medical Research

Abstract

Ultrasmall metal nanoclusters (NCs) have attracted increasing attention due to their unique characteristics, such as ultrasmall size, fascinating physical and chemical properties, and good biocompatibility, which are desirable for biological and other applications. In recent years, multiple types of NCs have been developed, such as gold NCs, silver NCs, platinum NCs, and copper NCs. These NCs not only play important roles in making chemicals and materials, but some NCs are also used in medical research, showing good prospects due to their advantages. This review summarizes the recent advances in NCs research in the medical field, with particular emphasis on tumor treatment, antimicrobial applications, and bioimaging. Finally, the challenges and outlook of metal NCs in nanomedicine are briefly discussed.