Directed self-assembly of fluorescence responsive nanoparticles and their use for real-time surface and cellular imaging.

ABSTRACT: Directed self-assemblies in water are known as the most efficient means of forming complex higher ordered structures in nature. Here we show a straightforward and robust method for particle assembly which utilises the amphiphilic tri-block co-polymer poloxamer-188 and a hydrophobic fluorophore as the two designer components, which have a built-in ability to convey spatial and temporal information about their surroundings to an observer. Templating of particle self-assembly is attributed to interactions between the fluorophore and hydrophobic segment of the poloxamer. Particle fluorescence in water is quenched but can be induced to selectively switch on in response to temperature, surface adsorption and cellular uptake. The ability of the particles to dynamically modulate emission intensity

SUBMITTER: Cheung S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5709404 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature