Magnetic nanoparticles for biomolecules immobilization

Abstract

The biomedical field demands quick and simple diagnosis along with effective and non-invasive methods. Development of building blocks with specific functions can be the answer to this demand; magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have became a promising technology because of its low toxicity and unique magnetic properties. A peculiar class of nanomaterials that can demonstrate an outstanding performance are the so called functionalized nanoparticles. These are particles that present organic molecules bonded onto its surface, i.e., an organic layer. Hence, the MNPs have provided the optimization of regular techniques or the development of totally new ones, such as bioconjugation, magnetic hyperthermia, magnetic resonance imaging and target drug delivery. For these applications, the MNPs requirements include controlled size, high dispersivity and compatibility in biological environment. This specificity is achieved by controlling the synthesis parameters and the organic components used. In the Phase 1 of the project, a new synthesis of amine-terminated magnetic nanoparticles for the immobilization of biocomposites was obtained, it is an easy-to-obtain synthesis using non-polluting reagents and fully reproducible solvents. The magnetic nanoparticles that emerged from this synthesis were called Magnus Bio. Magnus Bio was characterized as having a superparamagnetic nanoparticle with a diameter of 5 - 10 nm. The activity of the surface amine groups was observed from the immobilization with the enzyme acetylcholinesterase forming bioreactors, the bioreactors were reacted with acetylcholine and the product of that reaction, choline, was monitored by LC-MS. It was found that the amine endings of Magnus Bio were not only active, but a 50% lower mass concentration of Magnus Bio provided better results than the standard commercial particles used for the formation of the bioreactors. (AU)