Multiple potential applications for plasmonic nanoparticles require controlled release, uptake, and function of biomolecules. Stimuli-responsive polymers are an attractive option for their temperature, pH, or light-responsive properties, especially when combined with the strong light-absorbing properties of plasmonic nanoparticles. We report on our preliminary efforts to understand and control the selective solvation of model proteins within nanoparticle-hydrogel composites. For example, it is necessary to quantify the conformation of adsorbed proteins that could potentially alter their natural function or lead to unwanted nanoparticle aggregation. While ensemble characterization techniques are powerful and well established, they are often limited to ex-situ conditions and always report on average properties. Here, we present recent progress to understand the conformation of adsorbed proteins using powerful super-resolution single molecule fluorescence microscopy and various single particle spectroscopy including circular differential scattering.

Towards active control of nanoparticle-hydrogel composites

256th National Meeting (2018)

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