Review
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World J Biol Chem. Aug 26, 2013; 4(3): 35-63
Published online Aug 26, 2013. doi: 10.4331/wjbc.v4.i3.35
Molecular recognition by gold, silver and copper nanoparticles
Yannick Tauran, Arnaud Brioude, Anthony W Coleman, Moez Rhimi, Beonjoom Kim
Yannick Tauran, Arnaud Brioude, Anthony W Coleman, CNRS, LMI, University of Lyon 1, F69622 Villeurbanne, France
Yannick Tauran, Anthony W Coleman, Beonjoom Kim, Institute of Industrial Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-0041, Japan
Moez Rhimi, IFE-Micalis, INRA-AgroPariTech, Jouy-en-Josas, F78352 domaine de Vilvert, France
Author contributions: Tauran Y, Coleman AW, Rhimi M and Kim BJ wrote the paper; Tauran Y, Coleman AW, Brioude A and Kim BJ contributed to the proof reading and literature data search; Tauran Y was responsible for verifying the originality of the text.
Correspondence to: Anthony W Coleman, FRSC, Research Director CNRS, LMI, University of Lyon 1, CNRS UMR 5615, F69622 Villeurbanne, France. antony.coleman@adm.univ-lyon1.fr
Telephone: +33-4-72431027 Fax: +33-4-72440618
Received: May 2, 2013
Revised: June 11, 2013
Accepted: June 18, 2013
Published online: August 26, 2013
Processing time: 107 Days and 18.3 Hours
Core Tip

Core tip: The article is an in-depth review of the state of the art of molecular recognition processes involving hybrid nanoparticles and bio-molecular substrates. We describe the methods of preparation and physical characterization. The capping by proteins, DNA, peptides and supramolecular assemblies, including cyclodextrins, calix[n]arenes, cucurbitales, dendrimers and crown ethers is then discussed. There is a large analysis of the interactions of these systems with various substrates, such as complimentary oligo-nucleotides, antibodies, active pharmaceutical ingredients and polluants. Finally we discuss the problem of possible toxicity.