Molecular Applications of Gold Nanoparticles in Cancer Theranostics

Dear Colleagues,

Nanoparticles have emerged as promising tools in the field of medicine, particularly in the realm of cancer research, offering opportunities for early detection, precise diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies. Among these nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have garnered significant attention due to their unique attributes. These include their high density and atomic number, excellent biocompatibility with minimal toxicity, stability, low osmolality and viscosity, and efficient uptake by mammalian cells through endocytosis. The exceptional properties of AuNPs have paved the way for their diverse applications in cancer treatment modalities such as photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and radiation therapy. Furthermore, the inherent physical characteristics of AuNPs make them well-suited for various cancer imaging techniques, including CT, optical imaging, Raman spectroscopy imaging, photoacoustic imaging, X-ray fluorescence imaging, and X-ray acoustic imaging. Additionally, their ease of synthesis and surface functionalization contribute to their wide range of molecular applications, for instance, but not limited to:

• AuNPs can be conjugated with ferro- or para-magnetic probes or radioisotopic probes to enhance the sensitivity of cancer diagnosis through MRI or PET/SPECT imaging.
• AuNPs have been functionalized with targeting ligands to selectively deliver chemotherapeutic drugs to cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity.
• AuNPs have been utilized to deliver immunomodulatory agents, such as cytokines or immune checkpoint inhibitors, to modulate the tumor microenvironment and enhance anti-tumor immune responses. By targeting immune cells or tumor-associated antigens, AuNPs can regulate immune cell function and promote anti-cancer immune responses.
• AuNPs have demonstrated efficacy in delivering nucleic acids, including aptamers and small interfering RNA (siRNA), for targeted gene therapy applications.

This versatility underscores the potential of AuNPs as multifunctional nanoplatforms in cancer theranostics. This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS) aims to offer a comprehensive overview of advancements in AuNP-based molecular applications in cancer theranostics by assembling contributions from researchers around the world.

Dr. John Chetley Ford
Dr. Junwei Shi
Guest Editors

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• gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)
• multifunctional nanoplatform
• targeted cancer therapy
• drug delivery
• theranostics