The nanoparticle (NP) size, shape and surface characteristics plays a key role in their performance. Compared to conventional NPs, multifunctional nanomaterials can provide greater capability and synergistically perform multiple goals in a single nano-architecture. This study presents the design of an efficient multifunctional NP based on using nanorattles in order to improve the payload capacity. Nanorattles can create unique properties compared to conventional core-shell structures such as lower density, larger surface area, interstitial void, tunable central void, and an outer shell providing additional surface for functionalization. The proposed nanostructure is an Au nanorattle comprising a central Au core and an Au porous shell separated with a tunable internal void. The interior core is an Au nanosphere decorated with poly(propyleneimine)-based (PPI-based) dendrons terminated with carboxylic groups, which will enable cargo attachment through covalent binding. The outer porous shell has two roles: (i) protecting cargo from the environment while also allowing its release through the porous walls and (ii) providing additional surface for further functionalization. The structure of PPI dendrons was determined by 1H NMR and mass spectrometry. In order to prove the rattle-type structure, absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were utilized in which the presence of a central core inside a porous shell was demonstrated. Through the appropriate tuning of the functionalities, the prepared nanorattles can be utilized in different applications including catalysis, sensing, and treatment purposes. The next aim of this project is the utilization of these NPs as nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery applications for cancer treatments. Due to the architecture of nanorattles, the proposed nanocarriers can provide higher capacity for different purposes in targeted drug delivery systems.

Dendronized gold nanorattles as multifunctional hybrid nanoparticles

ACS Spring 2022

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