Quantum dot nanobarcodes: epitaxial assembly of nanoparticle-polymer complexes in homogeneous solution.
Multiplexed nanobarcodes have been prepared with quantum dots (QDs) and alternating amphiphilic copolymers consisting of hydrocarbons and maleic anhydride groups. In homogeneous solution, the QD-polymer complexes grow epitaxially into nanobeads of narrow size dispersity, which has been previously achieved only for micrometer-sized beads in the presence of solid supports. As a result of this new nanostructure formation mechanism, more than 250 QDs can be loaded into a nanobead of 100 nm in diameter. A model assay for sensitive detection of human prostate specific antigen has also been demonstrated using the QD-nanobeads as fluorescent reporters. This nanoparticle-polymer self-assembly technology is capable of producing a variety of nanostructures and is expected to open new opportunities in nanoparticle-based ultrasensitive detection and imaging.
Yang
Jian
J
Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, William H. Foege Building N530M, Campus Box 355061, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA.
Dave
Shivang R
SR
Gao
Xiaohu
X
D003116:Color; D006801:Humans; D007118:Immunoassay; D046529:Microscopy, Electron, Transmission; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D045663:Quantum Dots; D012996:Solutions
D011108:Polymers; D012996:Solutions; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen