Metal nanoscale systems functionalized with organic compounds

Surface functionalization of metallic nanoscale system is an emerging strategy for the realization of multifunctional materials. A critical summary of the most recent research studies in the field of organic compound grafting to metal nanoscale systems will constitute the first part of the chapter. Research studies will be grouped on the basis of the type of organic compound; proteins, peptides, and growth factors will be considered in the first section, antibiotics in the second one, and finally polyphenols and other natural molecules of vegetal origin will be reported. The second part of the chapter will be focused on the stability and durability of functionalized metal nanoscale systems, with particular attention to sterilization, storage, and application in physiological conditions. Finally, clinical and preclinical studies concerning metal nanoscale systems functionalized with organic compounds will be reported, and the main issues related to the clinical application of these innovative materials will be discussed. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.