One-Pot Strategy for Conjugation of Amine-Covered Iron Oxide Nanoparticles with Carbohydrates: A Sustainable Alternative

Abstract

Glyconanoparticles have a wide range of applications, from bioseparation to vaccine development. However, obtaining glyconanoparticles with magnetic response still presents some challenges, such as achieving high chemical stability, good dispersibility, and proper functional group density to enhance the affinity and recognition capability toward target molecules without losing their magnetic response. Additionally, there is a growing need to use synthetic methods that have a minimal impact on the environment and human health. This consideration is significant for nanomaterials due to the intensive use they are experiencing. This study presents a one-pot functionalization approach in aqueous and mild conditions that enables efficient conjugation and de-O-acetylation of carbohydrates to magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles without intermediate purification steps. The process demonstrates versatility in joining different sugars-azide (peracetylated β-D-glucose-azide, peracetylated β-D-galactose-azide, and peracetylated α-D-mannose-azide), and it was evaluated using green chemistry metrics, indicating improved sustainability compared to conventional methods. The one-pot approach reduces toxicity and increases the Green Star area index (GSAI) from 20% (conventional method) to 60% (one-pot method). This is attributed to the use of safer materials, water as a reaction medium, and fewer intermediate steps. Furthermore, it offers operational simplicity and enhanced safety compared to those of previously reported methods.