The real-time and spatially-resolved detection and identification of analytes present important goals for next-generation nanoscale sensors. Low-dimensional nanomaterials may improve the detection of molecular binding phenomena and result in better quantification of disease biomarkers and other bioanalytes. Cylindrical graphene provides a non-degradable, luminescent material for bioanalytical measurements which exhibits minimal toxicity. We developed hybrid polymer and biopolymer/cylindrical graphene nanomaterials to quantify bioanalytes in live cells, tissues, and organisms for studies in disease biology and for assays to facilitate drug development. On exploring avenues for optical modulation, we found new methods to enable unprecedented control over the shifting of emission wavelength towards both red and blue wavelengths, facilitated by adsorbed species, including biomacromolecules, and polymers that allow for switchable modification of surface coverage and charge on the cylindrical graphene surface. Analyte identification is achieved by modulation of the spectral response, resulting in distinct optical fingerprints. The responses can be spatially mapped via hyperspectral imaging in live cells and tissues, and quantified in real-time with sensitivity down to the single-molecule level, facilitating unprecedented bioanalytical measurements.

Cylindrical graphene nanomaterials for disease assessment and drug development

254th National Meeting (2017)

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