4 research outputs found
Cellular Uptake of Gold Nanoparticles Triggered by HostāGuest Interactions
We describe an approach
to regulate the cellular uptake of small
gold nanoparticles using supramolecular chemistry. The strategy relies
on the functionalization of AuNPs with negatively charged pyranines,
which largely hamper their penetration in cells. Cellular uptake can
be activated <i>in situ</i> through the addition of cationic
covalent cages that specifically recognize the fluorescent pyranine
dyes and counterbalance the negative charges. The high selectivity
and reversibility of the hostāguest recognition activates cellular
uptake, even in protein-rich biological media, as well as its regulation
by rational addition of either cage or pyranine