Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential of Metallic Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Review

Metallic nanoparticles (MNPs) are among the most widely investigated nanomaterials due to their unique physicochemical and biological properties. With particle sizes ranging from 1–100 nm, MNPs such as gold, silver, copper, zinc, and iron exhibit high surface-to- volume ratios, plasmon resonance, and enhanced reactivity compared to their bulk counterparts. These properties make them attractive candidates for biomedical applications, particularly in targeted drug delivery, imaging, antimicrobial therapies, and cancer treatment. Synthesis approaches are broadly classified into top-down and bottom-up methods, with growing emphasis on green synthesis for sustainable and biocompatible production. Gold and silver nanoparticles have demonstrated significant roles in photothermal therapy, radiotherapy enhancement, rheumatoid arthritis treatment, and tumor inhibition. Despite these promising applications, limitations related to toxicity, stability, and large-scale reproducibility must be addressed for successful clinical translation. This review discusses the synthesis strategies, key properties, and therapeutic potential of MNPs, highlighting their role as an emerging platform for nanomedicine and biomedical innovation.