How to very efficiently functionalize gold nanoparticles by “click” chemistry

Abstract

Difficulties previously encountered in the very useful "click" functionalization of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) resulting in low yields are now overcome by using specific conditions: 1:1 water-THF medium, stoichiometric CuSO(4) and sodium ascorbate, inert atmosphere at 20 degrees C that provide quantitative "click" reactions between azidoalkylthiolate-AuNPs with various hydrophilic (PEG-containing) and hydrophobic (organic and organometallic) alkynes.