Core-shell nanostructured materials, which are of great interest for fundamental research and industrial applications, have properties that can be enhanced by combining component superstructures. Here, we report the new construction of magnetic core-shell gold nanostars (AuNSs) for controlled release of drug. The AuNSs were successfully embedded intact between an inner silica layer and outside mesoporous silica layer to create magnetic core/shell hybrid nanoparticles by using a base cationic templating surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium hydroxide (CTAOH). The core-shell nano-composites containing AuNSs exhibit the characteristics including high magnetization, mesoporous nanostructure, photothermal properties and low in vitro toxicity, showing the potential applications for drug delivery and controlled release. (C) 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.