Biomolecular Corona of Gold Nanoparticles: The Urgent Need for Strong Roots to Grow Strong Branches

Abstract

AbstractGold nanoparticles (GNPs) are largely employed in diagnostics/biosensors and are among the most investigated nanomaterials in biology/medicine. However, few GNP‐based nanoformulations have received FDA approval to date, and promising in vitro studies have failed to translate to in vivo efficacy. One key factor is that biological fluids contain high concentrations of proteins, lipids, sugars, and metabolites, which can adsorb/interact with the GNP's surface, forming a layer called biomolecular corona (BMC). The BMC can mask prepared functionalities and target moieties, creating new surface chemistry and determining GNPs’ biological fate. Here, the current knowledge is summarized on GNP‐BMCs, analyzing the factors driving these interactions and the biological consequences. A partial fingerprint of GNP‐BMC analyzing common patterns of composition in the literature is extrapolated. However, a red flag is also risen concerning the current lack of data availability and regulated form of knowledge on BMC. Nanomedicine is still in its infancy, and relying on recently developed analytical and informatic tools offers an unprecedented opportunity to make a leap forward. However, a restart through robust shared protocols and data sharing is necessary to obtain “stronger roots”. This will create a path to exploiting BMC for human benefit, promoting the clinical translation of biomedical nanotools.