Functionalization of gold nanoparticles and CdS quantum dots with cell penetrating peptides

Berry, C.C. and de la Fuente, J.M. (2009) Functionalization of gold nanoparticles and CdS quantum dots with cell penetrating peptides. In: Colloidal Quantum Dots for Biomedical Applications IV, San Jose, CA, USA, Saturday 24 January 2009, 71890U. (doi: 10.1117/12.816237)

Abstract

During the last decade, there has been great deal of interest in the self-assembly fabrication of hybrid materials from inorganic nanoparticles and biomolecules. Nanoparticles are similar in size range to many common biomolecules, thus, nanoparticles appear to be natural companions in hybrid systems. At present, it is straightforward to control and modify properties of nanostructures to better suit their integration with biological systems; for example, controlling their size, modifying their surface layer for enhanced aqueous solubility, biocompatibility, or biorecognition. A particularly desirable target for therapeutic uses is the cell nucleus, because the genetic information is there. We review in this article the synthesis developed by our research group of water-soluble gold nanoparticles and CdS nanocrystals functionalized with a Tat protein-derived peptide sequence by straightforward and economical methodologies. The particles were subsequently tested in vitro with a human fibroblast cell line using optical and transmission electron microscopy to determine the biocompatibility of these nanoparticles and whether the functionalization with the cell penetrating peptide allowed particles to transfer across the cell membrane and locate into the nucleus

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Berry, Dr Catherine
• Authors: Berry, C.C., and de la Fuente, J.M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Molecular Biosciences