Title: Conformal Nanocarbon Coating of Alumina Nanocrystals for Biosensing and Bioimaging,
Abstract: A conformal coating technique with nanocarbon was developed to enhance the
surface properties of alumina nanoparticles for bio-applications. The
ultra-thin carbon layer induces new surface properties such as water
dispersion, cytocompatibility and tuneable surface chemistry, while maintaining
the optical properties of the core particle. The possibility of using these
particles as agents for DNA sensing was demonstrated in a competitive assay.
Additionally, the inherent fluorescence of the core alumina particles provided
a unique platform for localization and monitoring of living organisms, allowing
simultaneous cell monitoring and intra-cellular sensing. Nanoparticles were
able to carry genes to the cells and release them in an environment where
specific biomarkers were present.