Framework nucleic acids directed assembly of Au nanostructures for biomedical applications

Abstract

AbstractAu nanostructures have elicited considerable interest because of their unique optical and physicochemical properties. These characteristics are mostly depended on the size, shape, chemical composition and dielectric environment of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs). Because of the easy chemical modification and programmable design of DNA molecules, they can not only combine to the surface of AuNP for improved stability, but also form the framework nucleic acids (FNAs) for direct assembly of different Au nanostructures with precise configuration and multiple dimensions. This paper starts with the synthesis and properties of Au nanomaterials. Followed by a brief introduction to the development of FNA nanotechnology, the FNA‐directed assembly of Au nanostructures is discussed. Then, we focus on the biomedical applications of these Au nanostructures, including biosensing and therapeutics. In the end, we envision an insight into the remaining challenges and future perspectives toward FNA‐based metal functional materials.