Gemmill K., Delehanty J., Stewart M., Susumu K., Oh E., Deschamps J., Blanco-Canosa J., Dawson P., Huston A., Medintz I.
US Naval Research Laboratory, US
Keywords: cell delivery, cytosol, nanoparticles, quantum dots
Semiconductor CdSe/Zn quantum dots are ideal materials for biological imaging due to their superior optical properties over fluorescent proteins and organic dyes. However, cytosolic cellular delivery of quantum dots has been hindered by endosomal sequestration of materials. We have identified a peptide that, when bound to the quantum dot surface, facilitates cellular uptake and endosomal escape of the quantum dots into the cytosol. We have also demonstrated successful cytosolic delivery of dendrimers, proteins and other nanomaterials using this peptide. A comprehensive structure/function analysis revealed the functional domains of the peptide and a membrane localizing variant peptide. These findings advance our abilities to build multifunctional nanobioconjugates for targeted cellular biosensing, imaging and drug delivery.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2013: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 243 - 246
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Materials for Drug & Gene Delivery
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0586-2