Biological sensing using nanoparticles: Colloidal fluorescent and plasmonic nanoparticles yield intense responses to incident light, making them useful as sensors or probes for sensitive detection in solution. Howes et al. review the potential uses of nanoparticle biosensors in research and diagnostics. A range of methods allow for the chemical modification of the particle surfaces so that they can be tuned for specific analytes and give optical signals for a range of biological conditions of interest. Signals can be detected in complex media or in vivo making the particles of interest for both laboratory research and in clinical settings. Science , this issue 10.1126/science.1247390

Nitric oxide (NO) is a highly potent radical with a wide spectrum of physiological activities. Depending on the concentration, it can enhance endothelial cell proliferation in a growth factor‐free medium, mediate angiogenesis, accelerate wound healing, but may also lead to tumor progression or induce inflammation. Due to its multifaceted role, NO must be administered at a right dose and at the specific site. Many efforts have focused on developing NO‐releasing biomaterials; however, NO short half‐life in human tissues only allows this molecule to diffuse over short distances, and significant challenges remain before the full potential of NO can be realized. Here, an overview of platforms that are engineered to release NO via catalytic or noncatalytic approaches is presented, with a specific emphasis on progress reported in the past five years. A number of NO donors, natural enzymes, and enzyme mimics are highlighted, and recent promising developments of NO‐releasing scaffolds, particles, and films are presented. In particular, key parameters of NO delivery are discussed: 1) NO payload, 2) maximum NO flux, 3) NO release half‐life, 4) time required to reach maximum flux, and 5) duration of NO release. Advantages and drawbacks are reviewed, and possible further developments are suggested.