Carboxylate-modified gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were synthesized in a simple one-step process based on the reduction of tetrachloroauric acid by aspartic acid in water. GNPs were identified by UV-Vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy. Conjugation of protein molecules with functionalized nanoparticles was performed through electrostatic interaction. The GNP-protein conjugates were characterized by gel electrophoresis. The interaction between functionalized GNPs and protein molecules lead to conformational transition of protein structure after conjugation of protein with GNPs. This process was investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy and circular dichroism spectroscopy.

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Metal nanoparticles are one option for targeted drug delivery. In order to increase antibiotic efficiency and decrease its side effects, antibiotic conjugated nanoparticles have been known as a suitable approach. The aim of this study was optimization of gold nanoparticle biosynthesis byEscherichia coliDH5α and its conjugation with gentamicin. For this purpose gold nanoparticles were biosynthesized from HAuCl4and confirmed by Uv/ Vis, XRD, DLS and SEM. Then the effects of different parameters on optimum conditions for gold nanoparticles production were investigated. The MIC and MBC of gentamicin and its conjugate were investigated againstE. coli,Clostridium perfringensandClostridium botulinum. The results revealed that among different treatments, centrifuge (10000 rpm, 10 min) and sonication are the optimum conditions for gold nanoparticle production with less than 10 nm sizes. Filtration was also the best method for purifying nanoparticles. The conjugated nanoparticles significantly reduced the MIC of gentamicin againstE. coliand also overcame the natural resistance of tested anaerobic bacteria. In conclusion, the optimized method is an effective, inexpensive and environmental friendly method for biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles. Overcoming natural resistance of anaerobic bacteria using antibiotic conjugates with nanoparticles provides hopes for further experiments and in vivo studies.