Synthesis and bioanalytical applications of specific-shaped metallic nanostructures: A review

Many successful synthesis routes for producing different shapes of metallic nanostructures, including sphere, rod, cube, and hollow shapes, have been developed in the past few decades. Many applications using these nanostructures have been studied because the outstanding properties of the nanostructures are not exhibited by their bulk-state counterparts. This review paper reports some recent developments in clinical and biosensor applications. The first part focused on the synthesis methods of metallic nanostructures having various shapes along with their optical properties. The second and third part is an introduction of the gold nanoparticle assemblies and arrays, explaining the conjugation methods of metallic nanostructures with biological entities. The final part reviews on the recent bioanalytical applications using various shapes of metallic nanostructures.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Bio-applications and sensors using metal nanoparticles (NPs). ► Basic characteristics of metal NPs with various shapes, and their synthesis methods. ► Optical applications by using hollow nanoparticles. ► Photothermal therapy by using gold nanorods. ► Electrical sensors by using gold nanoparticle array.