Laser ablation-based one-step generation and bio-functionalization of gold nanoparticles conjugated with aptamers

authored by
Johanna G. Walter, Svea Petersen, Frank Stahl, Thomas Scheper, Stephan Barcikowski
Abstract

Background: Bio-conjugated nanoparticles are important analytical tools with emerging biological and medical applications. In this context, in situ conjugation of nanoparticles with biomolecules via laser ablation in an aqueous media is a highly promising one-step method for the production of functional nanoparticles resulting in highly efficient conjugation. Increased yields are required, particularly considering the conjugation of cost-intensive biomolecules like RNA aptamers.Results: Using a DNA aptamer directed against streptavidin, in situ conjugation results in nanoparticles with diameters of approximately 9 nm exhibiting a high aptamer surface density (98 aptamers per nanoparticle) and a maximal conjugation efficiency of 40.3%. We have demonstrated the functionality of the aptamer-conjugated nanoparticles using three independent analytical methods, including an agglomeration-based colorimetric assay, and solid-phase assays proving high aptamer activity. To demonstrate the general applicability of the in situ conjugation of gold nanoparticles with aptamers, we have transferred the method to an RNA aptamer directed against prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Successful detection of PSMA in human prostate cancer tissue was achieved utilizing tissue microarrays.Conclusions: In comparison to the conventional generation of bio-conjugated gold nanoparticles using chemical synthesis and subsequent bio-functionalization, the laser-ablation-based in situ conjugation is a rapid, one-step production method. Due to high conjugation efficiency and productivity, in situ conjugation can be easily used for high throughput generation of gold nanoparticles conjugated with valuable biomolecules like aptamers.

Organisation(s)
Institute of Technical Chemistry
External Organisation(s)
Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH)
Type
Article
Journal
Journal of nanobiotechnology
Volume
8
ISSN
1477-3155
Publication date
23.08.2010
Publication status
Published
Peer reviewed
Yes
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Bioengineering, Medicine (miscellaneous), Molecular Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Science
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
Electronic version(s)
https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-3155-8-21 (Access: Open)
https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-3155-8-21 (Access: Unknown)