Radio Frequency Controlled Stimulation of Intracellular Gold or Silver Nanoparticle Conjugates for Use as Potential Sensors or Modulators of Biological Function
Abstract
The objective of this investigation was to explore the ability of a radio frequency (RF) signal to interact with metal nanoparticles for the purposes of remote stimulation or control of cellular processes. For this study, spherical gold nanoparticles (Au NPs, 4nm and 13 nm) and spherical silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs, 8nm) were synthesized, biofunctionalized with oligonucleotides, and hybridized through the oligonucleotide functionalization as a potential method of intracellular control. Initial Au and Ag NP heating studies showed significant heating of unfunctionalized Au and Ag NPs of greater than 40◦ C in less than 180 seconds. Biofunctionalized Au and Ag NPs showed significantly less heat transfer to solution, indicating most heat transfer was absorbed by oligonucleotide. Biocompatibility assessment studies were also conducted on the unfunctionalized and functionalized Au and Ag NPs and did not show significant impact on cell viability after 24 hours. These results demonstrate that Au and Ag NPs show promising potential for sensing applications using remote RF control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA535681
Entities
People
- Richard C. Murdock
- Saber M. Hussain
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory