Table 4 Types of metallic nanocrystals used for cancer theranostic agents, including the metals used, their properties, synthesis methods, and applications
From: Nanocrystals: an emerging paradigm for cancer therapeutics
Nanocrystals type | Properties | Method for synthesis | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
Iron nanocrystals (Fe-NCs) | Magnetism, biocompatibility, and superparamagnetic characteristics. Magnetite (Fe3O4) and maghemite (–Fe2O3) are two examples | Thermal decomposition, co-precipitation, hydrothermal synthesis, Microemulsion method, Iron Sono chemical synthesis | Drug delivery, magnetic hyperthermia, and MRI |
Zinc nanocrystals (Zn-NCs) | Luminescent qualities and biocompatibility | Precipitation, Wet-chemical synthesis, Solid-state pyrolytic method, Sol–gel method | Fluorescence imaging and therapeutic delivery |
Gold nanocrystals (Au-NCs) | Optical properties and biocompatibility | Turkevich method, Perrault method, Block copolymer- mediated synthesis, Brust method | Drug delivery, imaging, and biosensing by photothermal treatment |
Silver nanocrystals (Ag-NCs) | Strong antibacterial activity and plasmonic characteristics | Chemical reduction, Physical synthesis, Biological synthesis | Imaging, photothermal treatment, and antimicrobial applications |