1D Arrangement of Au Nanoparticles by the Helical Structure of Schizophyllan: A Unique Encounter of a Natural Product with Inorganic Compounds

Abstract

Forming an orderly line: Au nanoparticles can be aligned in one dimension by their incorporation into the helical structure of a natural polysaccharide, schizophyllan (s-SPG, see picture). The hydrophobic inner cavity of the helix hosts the hydrophobic nanoparticles and aligns the guests along its length (≈200 nm).