Facile synthesis of wormlike quantum dots-encapsulated nanoparticles and their controlled surface functionalization for effective bioapplications

Abstract

Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are considered as ideal fluorescent probes owing to their intrinsic optical properties. It has been demonstrated that the size and shape of nanoparticles significantly influence their behaviors in biological systems. In particular, one-dimensional (1D) nanoparticles with larger aspect ratios are desirable for cellular uptake. Here, we explore a facile and green method to prepare novel 1D wormlike QDs@SiO 2 nanoparticles with controlled aspect ratios, wherein multiple QDs are arranged in the centerline of the nanoparticles. Then, an excellent cationic gene carrier, ethanolamine-functionalized poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (denoted by BUCT-PGEA), was in-situ produced via atom transfer radical polymerization on the surface of the QDs@SiO 2 nanoparticles to achieve stable surfaces (QDs@SiO 2 -PGEA) for effective bioapplications. We found that the wormlike QDs@SiO 2 -PGEA nanoparticles demonstrated much higher gene transfection performance than ordinary spherical counterparts. In addition, the wormlike nanoparticles with larger aspect ratio performed better than those with smaller ratio. Furthermore, the gene delivery processes including cell entry and plasmid DNA (pDNA) escape and transport were also tracked in real time by the QDs@SiO 2 -PGEA/pDNA complexes. This work realized the integration of efficient gene delivery and real-time imaging within one controlled 1D nanostructure. These constructs will likely provide useful information regarding the interaction of nanoparticles with biological systems.

Smart Delivery Systems Based on Poly(glycidyl methacrylate)s‐Coated Organic/Inorganic Core–Shell Nanohybrids

“…1D nanoparticles with larger aspect ratios were found to be favorable for cellular uptake. Thus, Xu and Zhao et al attached PGEA onto the surface of 1D wormlike QDs@SiO 2 via ATRP method, and achieved much higher gene transfection performance than ordinary spherical nanoparticles ( Figure ) . The incorporation of QDs in 1D wormlike SiO 2 not only promoted the cellular uptake but also enhanced the brightness, as well as realized further surface functionalization through the rich surface hydroxyl groups.…”

“…Schematic illustration for the preparation process of wormlike QDs@SiO 2 ‐PGEA nanoparticles for real‐time‐imaging‐guided GT. Reproduced with permission . Copyright 2016, Springer.…”

Nanostructured Li3V2(PO4)3 Cathodes

“…Microemulsion is also an effective approach to prepare nanomaterials with controllable morphology and uniform sizes . In this method, each water droplet acts as an independent nanoreactor to produce the desired nanostructure with designed composition.…”

Hollow Nanostars with Photothermal Gold Caps and Their Controlled Surface Functionalization for Complementary Therapies

“…The resultant unique starlike Au@SiO 2 with six sharp horns was found to favor cell endocytosis and drug loading. In order to realize efficient gene therapy, low toxic hydroxyl‐rich ethanolamine (EA)‐functionalized poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) (BUCT‐PGEA) was proposed to functionalize starlike Au@SiO 2 via surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) to produce starlike Au@SiO 2 ‐PGEA. Thus, the exterior cationic surfaces of the starlike Au@SiO 2 ‐PGEA nanohybrids could be utilized to condense DNA and the interior cavity for anticancer drug loading.…”