A modular approach for cytosolic protein delivery: metal ion-induced self-assembly of gold nanoclusters as a general platform.

We developed a versatile and modular method for cytosolic protein delivery through metal ion-induced co-assembly of gold nanoclusters and proteins into supramolecular assemblies. The versatility and high efficiency of this strategy to assemble and deliver various proteins into living cells were demonstrated. Importantly, the activity of proteins was maintained during the delivery. This modular approach provides an exciting and promising new nano-platform for cytosolic protein delivery.