One step synthesis and phase transition of phospholipid-modified Au particles into toluene

Synthesis and Self-assembly of DMPC-conjugated Gold Nanoparticles

“…The spherical shape of the nanoparticles and their well-separated disposition in the TEM images (Figure 4) can conceivably be ascribed to the lipid capping molecules of the gold nanoparticles. Considering the structural similarities between lipids and surfactants [12,13] and the proposed nature of the interaction of surfactants with metallic nanoparticles [2,11], it could be suggested that the polar head group of DMPC stabilizes the nanoparticles by forming non-covalent bonds. The hydrocarbon tails of the attached lipids extend beyond the surface of the nanoparticle, assist in maintaining a stable solution in non-polar toluene by providing a hydrophobic shield preventing nanoparticle aggregation.…”

“…The optical absorption spectrum of the gold nanoparticles exhibited a peak at 525.73 nm, supporting the formation of stable nanoparticles in toluene (Figure 2) [4,13]. DLS utilizes temporal variations of fluctuations of the scattered light to measure an average hydrodynamic diameter of particles suspended in a liquid medium [18].…”

“…The principle of phase transfer synthesis, generally applied to synthesize surfactants and amphiphiles capped nanostructures [2,11,13], was used to prepare the DMPC-capped gold nanoparticles in toluene. A solution of DMPC (0.25 mg/ml) in toluene was prepared in a 30 ml glass vial and stirred for 15 mins to ensure complete dissolution of the lipid in toluene.…”

“…Because of the amphiphilic nature of lipids, it is possible to modulate biomolecular interactions by altering the hydrophobic and hydrophilic components of their molecular frame. Hence, the use of phospholipids as capping reagents can facilitate the syntheses of a wide variety of biocompatible nanomaterials [13]. Many variations in the size and shape of the assembled nanostructures can be achieved by controlling the separation distance between nanoparticulates with atomic precision using selective molecular interactions of lipids [14,15].…”

“…In addition, lipids can affect the dielectric properties of metallic nanoparticles, providing a way to modulate the optical properties of an integrated architecture and serve as optical sensors [4]. Through altering the nature of the polar head groups, the interaction between the lipid and nanoparticle can be adjusted [13]. The size and number of hydrocarbon tails can control dimensions and kinetics to form an assembly of lipid-capped nanomaterials.…”