Controlled coating of nanoparticles with peptides and lanthanide complexes: a photophysical evaluation

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Savage, Alison Clare (2014). Controlled coating of nanoparticles with peptides and lanthanide complexes: a photophysical evaluation. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis describes the co-coating of gold nanoparticles with different combinations of lanthanide complexes and peptides, and the effect of this co-coating on the photophysical properties of the lanthanide complexes has been examined. A photophysical study of europium (III) ions binding to two surface active peptides in solution is presented and the ability of these peptides to bind the europium ions whilst tethered to gold nanoparticles is discussed. Lanthanide complexes with a diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) binding motif were prepared and attached to gold nanoparticles with different peptides to investigate their photophysical properties and their potential as a cellular imaging agent has been demonstrated. The co-coating of gold nanoparticles with europium and gadolinium complexes is also introduced, and these nanoparticles have the potential to be used as a multi-modal imaging agent for luminescent and magnetic resonance imaging. The synthesis of an azo-dye has been undertaken and its ability to bind and sensitise the near infrared lanthanides neodymium (III) and ytterbium (III) has been demonstrated. It was found to form complexes with these lanthanides, and the high molar absorption coefficients in the visible region allows for excitation at wavelengths up to 500 nm.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):