Gold nanorods as new nanochromophores for photothermal therapies

Results and perspectives on the biomedical exploitation of gold nanorods with plasmon resonances in the near infrared window are reported. The authors describe experimental studies of laser-activated nanoparticles in the direct welding of connective tissues, which may become a valuable technology in biomedicine. In particular, colloidal gold nanorods excited by diode laser radiation at 810 nm were used to mediate functional photothermal effects and weld eye's lens capsules and arteries. The preparation of biopolymeric matrices including gold nanorods is also described, as well as preliminary tests for their application in the closure of wounds in vessels and tendons. Finally, the use of these nanoparticles for future applications in the diagnosis, imaging and therapy of cancer is discussed.