Noble Metal Nanoparticles in Biomedical Thermoplasmonics

Abstract

The unique properties of metal nanoparticles (NPs) resulting from their localized surface plasmon resonance have led to the emergence and rapid development of promising scientific areas. One of these area is thermoplasmonics, which is based on the ability of such NPs to effectively transform optical radiation into heat. We discuss the optical properties of noble metal NPs, the main approaches to their synthesis, as well as the latest advances of thermoplasmonics in the field of biomedicine. The focus of this review is on photothermal diagnostics and therapy (theranostics) of various diseases. Note that, in addition to theranostics of tumors, the prospects for the use of plasmonic NPs in cardiology, ophthalmology, the fight against bacterial and viral infections, and other biomedical fields have been analyzed.