Facet-specific assembly of proteins on SrTiO₃ polyhedral nanocrystals

Sci Rep. 2014 May 28:4:5084. doi: 10.1038/srep05084.

Abstract

Precisely controlling the protein-nanomaterial interactions at selective sites is crucial in engineering biomolecule composite architectures with tailored nanostructures and functions for a variety of biomedical applications. This strategy, however, is only beginning to be explored. Here, we demonstrate the facet-specific assembly of proteins, such as albumin, immunoglobulin and protamine, on {100} facets of SrTiO3 polyhedral nanocrystals, while none on {110} facets. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate the immobile surface hydration layer might play a barrier role to effectively prevent proteins adsorption on specific {110} facets. This work thus provides new insights into the fundamentally understanding of protein-nanomaterial interactions, and open a novel, general and facile route to control the selective adsorption of various proteins on various nanocrystals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Albumins / chemistry*
  • Immunoglobulins / chemistry*
  • Metal Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Molecular Dynamics Simulation
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry
  • Oxides / chemistry*
  • Protamines / chemistry*
  • Strontium / chemistry*
  • Surface Properties
  • Titanium / chemistry*

Substances

  • Albumins
  • Immunoglobulins
  • Oxides
  • Protamines
  • Titanium
  • strontium titanium oxide
  • Strontium