Synthetic methodologies of gold nanorod@MOF nanohybrids focused on biological applications

A stable and controllable coating can be formed on the surface of gold nanorods (AuNRs) by using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which avoids the agglomeration of the nanohybrid AuNR@MOF and also expands the functionality of the plasmon nanoparticles. In this review, we discuss the chemical role of the different components of the nanohybrid, <i>i.e.</i>, AuNR, surface ligand or mesoporous nanostructure (MN) and the MOF around the AuNR. The methodologies used in the different synthesis stages and the factors to be considered to maintain stability in the construction of this type of nanostructures are also reported. Furthermore, we observed that there are a wide variety of MOF morphologies that can be built around AuNRs, even using the same components for their formation, which vary depending on the synthesis methodology. Finally, we discuss about the broad range of applications, of the AuNR@MOF nanohybrids, mainly in the biological field.