A fluorescence-Raman dual-imaging platform based on complexes of conjugated polymers and carbon nanotubes

Nanoscale. 2014;6(3):1480-9. doi: 10.1039/c3nr04430k.

Abstract

The present study describes a flexible nanoplatform based on electrostatic assembly of conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) and carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (cMWNTs). It is demonstrated that the obtained nanocomposites inherit intrinsic optical properties of CPEs and characteristic Raman vibration modes of MWNTs, providing a fluorescence-Raman dual-imaging method for intracellular tracking and locating of MWNTs. We suggest that the cellular internalization of the CPE-cMWNT nanocomposites is a surface charge-dependent process. The strengths of this nanoplatform include satisfying biocompatibility, enhanced protein-repellent property, and ease of implementation, making it available for both in vitro and in vivo applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Carbon / chemistry
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Cell Survival / drug effects*
  • Cytochromes c / chemistry
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Electrolytes / chemistry*
  • Hemoglobins / chemistry
  • Horses
  • Humans
  • Microscopy, Fluorescence
  • Nanocomposites / chemistry
  • Nanotechnology
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry*
  • Optics and Photonics
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods*
  • Static Electricity

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Electrolytes
  • Hemoglobins
  • Nanotubes, Carbon
  • Polymers
  • Carbon
  • Cytochromes c