Nanoparticles (NPs) conjugated with biomacromolecular ligands, such as peptides and antibodies have been proven to be strong tools in diagnostics, molecular biology, drug delivery, disease therapy, and as antidotes for toxins and viruses. On the other hand, synthetic polymer NPs with an intrinsic affinity for  biomacromolecules are also of significant interest as inexpensive and stable substitutes for antibodies. Previously, we reported polymeric NPs (~30 nm) capable of binding the melittin[1-4], a 26 amino acid peptide toxin isolated from bee venom. Recently, we have expanded our targets to include proteins. By incorporation of appropriate combinations and ratios of functional monomers, it was possible to design NPs that can capture targeted proteins with high affinity. Currently, we are exploring the applications of these synthetic polymer NPs in the area of biomaterial engineering.

Designed synthetic polymer nanoparticles for capturing of proteins

243rd National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.