Atomically Precise Gold Nanoclusters in Electrochemiluminescence: Fundamentals, Modulation Strategies, and Applications

Abstract

Atomically Precise Gold Nanoclusters (AP-AuNCs) have emerged as cutting-edge nanomaterials in the electrochemiluminescence (ECL) realm due to their atomically precise structures, quantum confinement effect, and superior biocompatibility. This review systematically summarizes the recent advancements of AP-AuNCs in ECL. First, the fundamental ECL mechanisms are elucidated from a molecular orbital perspective, rooted in the “core-ligand shell” hierarchical structure and superatomic electronic nature of AP-AuNCs. Subsequently, precision modulation strategies for tuning their ECL performances, such as gold core structural regulation, bimetallic doping, ligand engineering, valence state engineering, aggregation-induced ECL, and system energy level matching, are comprehensively presented. Furthermore, the current application landscape in biomedicine, environmental monitoring, and food safety is evaluated. Finally, the future challenges and developmental prospects of this field are also discussed. This review aims to provide a systematic theoretical reference and innovative insights for the atomic-level design of high-performance AP-AuNCs-based ECL systems, facilitating their transitions toward practical application scenarios.