Green synthesis, properties, and biomedical potential of gold nanoparticles: A comprehensive review

Abstract

The synthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) through green methods, particularly using plant extracts, has gained substantial attention due to its environmentally friendly and cost-effective nature. This review examines the recent advancements in the green synthesis of AuNPs, exploring the role of phytochemicals in reducing and capping, which facilitate nanoparticle formation. The review highlights key factors influencing the properties of AuNPs, such as extract concentration, pH, temperature, and reaction time, and their subsequent characterization using techniques like UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, TEM, and SEM. The resulting nanoparticles, which vary in size and shape, demonstrate significant potential in biomedical applications, including imaging, diagnostics, drug delivery, cancer therapy, and antimicrobial activity, owing to their biocompatibility and low toxicity. This review emphasizes the need for further research to gain deeper mechanistic insights into phytochemical reduction processes, optimize synthesis parameters, and explore advanced surface functionalization strategies. These efforts will enhance the control over the physicochemical properties of AuNPs, broadening their applicability in diverse biomedical fields.