An investigation into non-covalent functionalization of a single-walled carbon nanotube and a graphene sheet with protein G:A combined experimental and molecular dynamics study

Abstract

Investigation of non-covalent interaction of hydrophobic surfaces with the protein G (PrG) is necessary due to their frequent utilization in immunosensors and ELISA. It has been confirmed that surfaces, including carbonous-nanostructures (CNS) could orient proteins for a better activation. Herein, PrG interaction with single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) and graphene (Gra) nanostructures was studied by employing experimental and MD simulation techniques. It is confirmed that the PrG could adequately interact with both SWCNT and Gra and therefore fine dispersion for them was achieved in the media. Results indicated that even though SWCNT was loaded with more content of PrG in comparison with the Gra, the adsorption of the PrG on Gra did not induce significant changes in the IgG tendency. Several orientations of the PrG were adopted in the presence of SWCNT or Gra; however, SWCNT could block the PrG-FcR. Moreover, it was confirmed that SWCNT reduced the α-helical structure content in the PrG. Reduction of α-helical structure of the PrG and improper orientation of the PrG-SWCNT could remarkably decrease the PrG tendency to the Fc of the IgG. Importantly, the Gra could appropriately orient the PrG by both exposing the PrG-FcR and also by blocking the fragment of the PrG that had tendency to interact with Fab in IgG.

Amino Acid Functionalization of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes for Enhanced Apatite Formation and Biocompatibility

“…If CNTs are incorporated into composite materials for medical applications, evidence of their bioactivity and toxicity is essential. The presence of CNTs in the composite may have no detrimental effects and could even enhance its bioactive properties [21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30][31][32][33][34][35][36][37]. A study by Georg et al [38] tested the response of MWCNTs to human lung epithelial cells, osteoblast-like cells and primary osteoblast cells.…”

Electrochemical functionalization of single wall carbon nanotubes with phosphorus and nitrogen species

“…Some examples of non-covalent functionalization of SWCNT are based on the adsorption and wrapping of the SWCNT surface, through electrostatic interactions, π-π stacking, hydrophobic forces or hydrogen bonds, with different types of conjugated polymers [13,15], metal nanoparticles [16], porphyrins, etc. [17][18][19].…”

Carbon Nanohybrids for Advanced Electronic Applications

“…[ 71 ] However, the bundled structure of SWNTs and poor solubility in solvents results in strong π–π interactions, thus restricting their applications. [ 72 ] Covalent chemical functionalization, [ 73–75 ] acid treatment, [ 76–78 ] noncovalent functionalization using hydrophobic interactions, [ 79–81 ] formation of supramolecular complexes in the presence of π electron‐donating compounds including pyrenes, [ 82 ] porphyrins, [ 83 ] and π‐conjugated polymers under ultrasonication are the ways to impart sufficient solubility in SWNTs. [ 72 ] Consequently, the interactions between SWNTs and π electron‐rich compounds can provide moderate solubility to SWNTs.…”