Nanomaterials are widely used in commercial products,
resulting
in the release of nanoscale particles into the environment. This raises
concerns about their potential exposure risks in complex biological
matrices. Most attempts use engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) to mimic
the biological behavior of nanoparticles in the environment, and labeling
of ENMs by sensors is a commonly used approach for sensitive detection
and tracking of ENMs in organisms. However, due to the distinct physicochemical
properties of nanoparticles, different labeling approaches have been
developed, each with varying applicability. In this Review, we summarize
the three main types of labeling methods used for nanoparticles: fluorescent,
radiological, and metallic labeling. We discuss their labeling mechanisms,
efficiency, stability, target nanoparticles, and applicability in
different organism models. Finally, we propose a labeling scheme for
specific nanoparticles. Overall, this Review provides a comprehensive
overview of the advances in nanoparticle labeling techniques and their
potential applications in environmental and health studies.