Enhanced protein-mediated binding between oligonucleotide–gold nanoparticle composites and cell surfaces: co-transport of proteins and composites

Abstract

The measurement of the binding force between a cell membrane and an oligonucleotide-functionalized, gold-coated tip using atomic force microscope force spectroscopy showed enhanced binding forces due to the presence of proteins in the buffer. The cellular uptake of oligonucleotide–gold nanoparticle composites was also enhanced when the composites were coated with serum proteins. Confocal microscopy image analysis of fluorescently labeled serum proteins and the oligonucleotides of the composites revealed co-transport of proteins and the composites.