title: Efficient quantum dot-quantum dot and quantum dot-dye energy transfer in biotemplated assemblies.
abstract: CdSe semiconductor nanocrystal quantum dots are assembled into nanowire-like arrays employing microtubule fibers as nanoscale molecular "scaffolds." Spectrally and time-resolved energy-transfer analysis is used to assess the assembly of the nanoparticles into the hybrid inorganic biomolecular structure. Specifically, we demonstrate that a comprehensive study of energy transfer between quantum dot pairs on the biotemplate and, alternatively, between quantum dots and molecular dyes embedded in the microtubule scaffold comprises a powerful spectroscopic tool for evaluating the assembly process. In addition to revealing the extent to which assembly has occurred, the approach allows determination of particle-to-particle (and particle-to-dye) distances within the biomediated array. Significantly, the characterization is realized in situ, without need for further sample workup or risk of disturbing the solution-phase constructs. Furthermore, we find that the assemblies prepared in this way exhibit efficient quantum dot-quantum dot and quantum dot-dye energy transfer that affords faster energy-transfer rates compared to densely packed quantum dot arrays on planar substrates and to small-molecule-mediated quantum dot-dye couples, respectively.
authors.affiliation: Chemistry Division, C-PCS, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545, United States.
authors.forename: Marc
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Achermann
authors.forename: Sohee
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Jeong
authors.forename: Laurent
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Balet
authors.forename: Gabriel A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Montano
authors.forename: Jennifer A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Hollingsworth
mesh_terms: D001704:Biopolymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D019921:Biotinylation / Q000379:methods; D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D004735:Energy Transfer; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D046228:Microarray Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation*; D045663:Quantum Dots
chemical_list: D001704:Biopolymers