Luminescent gold nanoclusters from synthesis to sensing: A comprehensive review

[Display omitted] •The synthesis and characterizations of AuNCs are reviewed in detail.•The design principles for high-performance AuNCs are presented.•Future development directions of AuNCs-based sensing are discussed.•Recent progresses of AuNCs-based sensing are overviewed. Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) with a small size distribution of less than 2 nm comprise several to hundreds of Au atoms stabilized by the ligands. They have garnered significant interests due to their unique molecule-like properties, particularly in luminescence performance. Their straightforward synthesis and broad emission spectrum, ranging from visible to near-infrared regions, set them apart from other fluorescent materials. Over the past decade, AuNCs have been successfully employed in sensing applications for detection of various critical targets. The review presents a comprehensive summary of AuNCs, covering their synthesis, structural and performance characterization, strategies for enhancing emission, and recent advancements in AuNCs-based sensing applications. Additionally, it delves into the challenges and future perspectives in the AuNCs-based sensing applications. Overall, this review aims to offer valuable insights and guidance for developing high-performance AuNCs-based sensing solutions.