Silver nanoplates are introduced as a new photoacoustic contrast agent that can be easily functionalized for molecular photoacoustic imaging in vivo. Methods are described for synthesis, functionalization, and stabilization of silver nanoplates using biocompatible (“green”) reagents. Directional antibody conjugation to the nanoplate surface is presented along with proof of molecular sensitivity in vitro with pancreatic cancer cells. Cell viability tests show the antibody-conjugated silver nanoplates to be nontoxic at concentrations up to 1 mg/ml. Furthermore, the silver nanoplates' potential for in vivo application as a molecularly sensitive photoacoustic contrast agent is demonstrated using an orthotopic mouse model of pancreatic cancer. Results of these studies suggest that the synthesized silver nanoplates are well suited for a host of biomedical imaging and sensing applications.

*Made equal contribution to this poster.Our intent is to present our experience on teaching Molecular Cell Biology and Protein Chemistry at UNIRIO through an innovative approach that includes myosin II extraction and purification. We took advantage of the properties of muscle contraction and propose a simple method for purifying myosin II by affinity chromatography. This original method is based on the preparation of an affinity column containing actin molecules covalently bound to chitin particles. We propose a three-week syllabus that includes lectures and bench experimental work. The syllabus favors the active learning of protein extraction and purification, as well as, of scientific concepts such as muscle contraction, cytoskeleton structure and its importance for the living cell. It also promotes the learning of the biotechnological applications of chitin and the applications of protein immobilization in different industrial fields. Furthermore, the activities also target the development of laboratorial technical abilities, the development of problem solving skills and the ability to write up a scientific report following the model of a scientific article. It is very important to mention that this syllabus can be used even in places where a facility such as ultra-centrifugation is lacking.