Biomedical applications of gold nanorod-based multifunctional nano-carriers

Due to the good biocompatibility, ease of modification and unique optical properties, gold nanorods (AuNRs) have attracted more and more attentions in biomedical fields. In particular, through surface functionalization, AuNRs can be used as nano-carriers for drugs, probes, nucleic acids, and proteins in cancer treatment. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in biomedical applications of AuNRs-based nano-carriers including those in detection, biocatalysis, imaging, drug, and gene delivery. We also discuss the bioeffects of AuNRs such as in vivo distribution, translocation, localization, metabolism, and toxicity. Finally, we highlight some challenges in future biomedical applications of AuNRs-based nano-carriers.