Gold Nanoparticle-Mediated Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer for analytical applications in the fields of life health and safety

Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) has emerged as a predominant, highly sensitive, and homogeneous optical analytical technique in the realm of analytical testing and bio-imaging. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) demonstrate a size-dependent, broader absorption range within visible wavelengths owing to the phenomenon of surface plasmon resonance. As a result, they can effectively act as light acceptors, enabling the creation of a donor-acceptor system crucial for achieving precise target analyte analysis. In this comprehensive review, we present an extensive survey of recent research advancements in the field of FRET techniques based on AuNPs for the analytical detection of a wide range of entities, including some biomolecules, pesticides, enzymes, microorganisms, food safety and environmental pollutants. Additionally, we elucidate the procedural strategies and underlying mechanisms involved. Finally, we provide perspectives on the current issues and future efforts surrounding the FRET applications of AuNPs in biological analysis. Overall, this review aims to provide a holistic comprehension of gold nanoparticle applications in life analysis using FRET, while also presenting a promising vision for future endeavors in this domain.