Glowing Hope: Radioactive Gold Nanoparticles for Targeted Therapy. A Comprehensive Review on Nanoparticle Geometry and Synthesis

Abstract

The amalgamation of radioactivity and nanoparticles has catalyzed profound innovations across scientific and medical domains. This study offers a comprehensive exploration of synthesis methodologies, safety assessments, and formulation tactics pertaining to radioactive gold nanoparticles within the domain of precision medicine. The convergence of radioactivity and nanotechnology has instigated novel approaches to combat various diseases, notably cancer. Radioactive elements emit ionizing radiation, enabling targeted destruction of diseased cells, while nanoparticles provide unique benefits such as customizable properties and efficient payload delivery. Synthesis techniques for radioactive gold nanoparticles encompass a spectrum of methods, including chemical reduction, radiation-induced synthesis, and surface functionalization. These methodologies afford precise control over nanoparticle attributes like size, morphology, and surface chemistry, thereby influencing their biological interactions and therapeutic efficacy. Synthesis methods are numerous in the literature and each one yields differently shaped gold nanoparticles, the particular geometry of these offers them different roles and functions with specific advantages and disadvantages. Safety considerations are paramount in nanoparticle-based therapies. Despite the inherent cytotoxicity of radioactivity, meticulous surface modifications and biocompatible coatings mitigate off-target effects, enhancing the safety profile of radioactive nanoparticles and optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Formulation strategies play a pivotal role in tailoring the delivery and targeting of radioactive gold nanoparticles. Strategies such as encapsulation within polymeric matrices, conjugation with targeting ligands, and integration into nanocarriers offer versatility in modulating pharmacokinetics and maximizing therapeutic efficacy. The fusion of radioactivity and nanotechnology presents significant potential for disease treatment. By elucidating synthesis, safety considerations, and formulation strategies of radioactive gold nanoparticles, this article aims to advance precision medicine and facilitate the development of personalized therapeutic interventions.