By applying gold nanoparticle (AuNP) seeding methodology, triblock copolymer (TBP) coated AuNPs can be synthesized with low polydispersity. The TBP AuNP sizes can be tailored to allow them to penetrate the extracellular matrix (ECM) and avoid significant uptake by the mononuclear phagocyte system (MPS). In addition, the non-ionic coating allows facile functionalization by thiols. It has been shown that there is a several fold enhancement of single strand breakage (SSB) and double strand breakage (DSB) of DNA by ionizing radiation in the presence of citrate-stabilized AuNPs. The extent of DNA association with citrate coated AuNPs, however, is weak. We report on the pUC18 plasmid DNA breakage enhancement by TBP coated AuNPs. This is achieved via non-covalent interactions of AuNPs with the N-caproyl-penta-arginine amide (Cap-R5-NH2) (fatty acid) terminated peptide. We compare its DNA radiosensitization potential with that of alternatively prepared gold nanoparticles.

Functional gold nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterization, and DNA radiosensitization

244th National Meeting (2012)

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