title: Reversible control of nanoparticle functionalization and physicochemical properties by dynamic covalent exchange.
abstract: Existing methods for the covalent functionalization of nanoparticles rely on kinetically controlled reactions, and largely lack the sophistication of the preeminent oligonucleotide-based noncovalent strategies. Here we report the application of dynamic covalent chemistry for the reversible modification of nanoparticle (NP) surface functionality, combining the benefits of non-biomolecular covalent chemistry with the favorable features of equilibrium processes. A homogeneous monolayer of nanoparticle-bound hydrazones can undergo quantitative dynamic covalent exchange. The pseudomolecular nature of the NP system allows for the in situ characterization of surface-bound species, and real-time tracking of the exchange reactions. Furthermore, dynamic covalent exchange offers a simple approach for reversibly switching—and subtly tuning—NP properties such as solvophilicity.
authors.forename: Flavio
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: della Sala
authors.forename: Euan R
authors.initials: ER
authors.lastname: Kay
mesh_terms: D006835:Hydrazones / Q000737:chemistry; D009682:Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy; D053758:Nanoparticles; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D006835:Hydrazones