Selective Visual Detection of TNT at the Sub-Zeptomole Level

Total Protein Determination by Recovery Fluorescence of Trinitrotoluene-Quenched Protein-Functionalized Gold Nanoclusters

Determination of total protein content is very important for clinical, pharmaceutical and food chemistry, and the simplicity and rapidity of the existing total protein content assays should be improved. Here, a novel fluorescent sensor for total protein content measurement was described using near-infrared emitting fluorescent gold nanoclusters, which were prepared with egg whites. Trinitrotoluene served as highly efficient quencher to quench the fluorescence of gold nanoclusters. Interestingly, the trinitrotoluene-protein complex that formed by premixing of trinitrotoluene and protein-containing real samples maintained the fluorescence of gold nanoclusters. These new findings provided a novel mechanism to design a fluorescence sensor for determination of total protein levels in various real samples. With available and low-cost bovine serum albumin as reference, the obtained standard curve for total protein determination indicated a linear range of 0.1-3.5 g L- 1 with a detection limit of 0.06 g L- 1 (3σ rule) and a correlation efficiency (R2) of 0.9850. The applicability of the proposed sensor was validated by determination of total protein levels in real samples. Comparison with the existing spectrophotometric methods, the proposed sensor is advantageous of simplicity, rapidity, and cost-effectiveness.

Platinum-Grafted Twenty-Five Atom Gold Nanoclusters for Robust Hydrogen Evolution

A robust hydrogen evolution is demonstrated from Au25(PET)18]- nanoclusters (PET = 2-phenylethanethiol) grafted with minimal platinum atoms. The fabrication involves an electrochemical activation of nanoclusters by partial removal of thiols, without affecting the metallic core, which exposes Au-sites adsorbed with hydrogen and enables an electroless grafting of platinum. The exposed Au-sites feature the (111)-facet of the fcc-Au25 nanoclusters as assessed through lead underpotential deposition. The electrochemically activated nanoclusters (without Pt loading) show better electrocatalytic reactivity toward hydrogen evolution reaction than the pristine nanoclusters in an acidic medium. The platinum-grafted nanocluster outperformed with a lower overpotential of 0.117 V vs RHE (RHE = Reversible Hydrogen Electrode) compared to electrochemically activated nanoclusters (0.353 V vs RHE ) at 10 mA cm-2 and is comparable with commercial Pt/C. The electrochemically activated nanoclusters show better reactivity at higher current density owing to the ease of hydrogen release from the active sites. The modified nanoclusters show unique supramolecular self-assembly characteristics as observed in electron microscopy and tomography due to the possible metallophilic interactions. These results suggest that the post-surface modification of nanoclusters will be an ideal tool to address the sustainable production of green hydrogen.

Vapor phase detection of explosives by surface enhanced Raman scattering under ambient conditions with metal nanogap structures

Non-invasive and passive detection of explosives in the vapor phase is advantageous for military, counter-terrorism, and homeland security applications. Detection of explosives using SERS has been an active research topic. However, the vapor pressures of most explosives are low at room temperature, and consequently, the vapor phase detection by SERS is highly challenging without intentionally heating explosive powder to increase the vapor pressure. In this work, we report the rapid and sensitive detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) in the vapor phase, using a gold nanogap (AuNG) SERS substrate. The AuNG SERS substrate was fabricated with electron beam evaporation, rapid thermal annealing, and wet etching. SERS measurements were carried out with an incident power as low as 0.56 mW at 785 nm. To prevent the condensation effect, the TNT and 2,4-DNT powders inside the cuvette were taken out before inserting the nanogap substrate. Our SERS results demonstrate the feasibility of the non-invasive detection of vapor phase explosives under ambient conditions.

Estimation of Environmental Effects and Response Time in Gas-Phase Explosives Detection Using Photoluminescence Quenching Method

Detecting the presence of explosives is important to protect human lives during military conflicts and peacetime. Gas-phase detection of explosives can make use of the change of material properties, which can be sensitive to environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. This paper describes a remote-controlled automatic shutter method for the environmental impact assessment of photoluminescence (PL) sensors under near-open conditions. Utilizing the remote-sensing method, we obtained environmental effects without being exposed to sensing vapor molecules and explained how PL intensity was influenced by the temperature, humidity, and exposure time. We also developed a theoretical model including the effect of exciton diffusion for PL quenching, which worked well under limited molecular diffusions. Incomplete recovery of PL intensity or the degradation effect was considered as an additional factor in the model.

3D ZnII-Based coordination polymer: Synthesis, structure and fluorescent sensing property for nitroaromatic compounds

A water-stable Zn^II-based coordination polymer (CP) with excellent photophysical behavior, namely [Zn₂L(atez)(H₂O)₂] (compound 1; H₃L = 4-(2',3'-dicarboxylphenoxy); atez = 5-aminotetrazole), was successfully prepared by the solvothermal reaction of Zn ions with a π-conjugated and semi-rigid multicarboxylate ligand H₃L in the presence of N-containing linker atez. Compound 1 displays a hierarchically pillared three-dimensional (3D) (3,4,5)-connected (4·6²) (4²·6⁴) (4³·6⁴·8³) net which is based on two-dimensional (2D) multicarboxylate- Zn^II layers strutted by the atez ligands. Sensing investigations of compound 1 reveal that this material can selectively and sensitively detect nitroaromatic compounds in water suspension through fluorescence quenching effect. In particular, it is worth noting that it shows highly specific detection of nitrobenzene (NB) and 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) with remarkable quenching constants (K_SV = 7.5 × 10⁴ M^-1 for NB and K_SV = 1.9 × 10⁵ M^-1 for TNP) and low limit of detection (LOD = 0.93 μM for NB and LOD = 0.36 μM for TNP). Investigations reveal that the probable mechanisms for such sensing processes are the concurrent presence of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) as well as photoinduced electron transfer (PET) between the CP and nitroaromatic molecules. This work not only offers an effective route to improve the application of fluorescent CPs but also provide one novel probable fluorescence probe for nitroaromatic compounds.

Biological Preparation of Chitosan-Loaded Silver Nanoparticles: Study of Methylene Blue Adsorption as Well as Antibacterial Properties under Light

Human beings have made significant progress in the medical field since antibiotics were widely used. However, the consequences caused by antibiotics abuse have gradually shown their negative effects. Antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has the ability to resist drug-resistant bacteria without antibiotics, and as it is increasingly recognized that nanoparticles can effectively solve the deficiency problem of singlet oxygen produced by photosensitizers, the application performance and scope of aPDT are gradually being expanded. In this study, we used a biological template method to reduce Ag⁺ to silver atoms in situ with bovine serum albumin (BSA) rich in various functional groups in a 50 °C water bath. The aggregation of nanomaterials was inhibited by the protein's multistage structure so that the formed nanomaterials have good dispersion and stability. It is unexpected that we used chitosan microspheres (CMs) loaded with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to adsorb methylene blue (MB), which is both a pollutant and photosensitive substance. The Langmuir adsorption isothermal curve was used to fit the adsorption capacity. The exceptional multi-bond angle chelating forceps of chitosan make it have a powerful physical adsorption capacity, and dehydrogenated functional groups of proteins with negative charge can also bond to positively charged MB to form a certain amount of ionic bonds. Compared with single bacteriostatic materials, the bacteriostatic capacity of the composite materials adsorbing MB under light was significantly improved. This composite material not only has a strong inhibitory effect on Gram-negative bacteria but also has a good inhibitory effect on the growth of Gram-positive bacteria poorly affected by conventional bacteriostatic agents. In conclusion, the CMs loaded with MB and AgNPs have some possible applications in the purification or treatment of wastewater in the future.

Synthesis of metal nanoclusters and their application in Hg2+ ions detection: A review

Mercuric (Hg²⁺) ions released from human activities, natural phenomena, and industrial sources are regarded as the global pollutant of world's water. Hg²⁺ ions contaminated water has several adverse effects on human health and the environment even at low concentrations. Therefore, rapid and cost-effective method is urgently required for the detection of Hg²⁺ ions in water. Although, the current analytical methods applied for the detection of Hg²⁺ ions provide low detection limit, they are time consuming, require expensive equipment, and are not suitable for in-situ analysis. Metal nanoclusters (MNCs) consisting of several to ten metal atoms are important transition missing between single atoms and plasmonic metal nanoparticles. In addition, sub-nanometer sized MNCs possess unique electronic structures and the subsequent unusual optical, physical, and chemical properties. Because of these novel properties, MNCs as a promising material have attracted considerable attention for the construction of selective and sensitive sensors to monitor water quality. Hence this review is focused on recent advances on synthesis strategies, and optical and chemical properties of various MNCs including their applications to develop optical assay for Hg²⁺ ions in aqueous solutions.

Specific ultralow level chemo-recognition using Graphene-fluorophore supramolecular assembly: Fine-tuning the fluorophore framework

The non-covalent interactions between graphene and aromatic fluorophores have generated highly sensitive fluorimetric turn-on sensors for various significant analytes. Herein, the supramolecular interaction between reduced graphene oxide and 7-Hydroxy-4-Methyl-8-Amino Coumarin is made use of for tracing Cu²⁺ at sub-zeptomole level with excellent selectivity among a collection of nineteen metal ions. The system enables quantification of the analyte in a commendably wide range, from micromolar to zeptomolar, a feature that almost all-optical sensors lack. Handy solid-state sensor strip fabricated using the above-mentioned supramolecular combination enabled visual recognition of Cu²⁺ions at the molecular level. Based on the chemo recognition ability of the fluorophore, multiple Boolean logic devices operating at the molecular level are proposed. By screening pertinent coumarin derivatives, it is demonstrated that the selectivity and sensitivity of the sensors of this sort are decided by the number of π- interaction centers of the fluorophores and the strength by which they interact with graphene, respectively, which will enable identification and modification of proper fluorophores for ultra-trace detection of contaminants of environmental relevance from aqueous solutions.

Multi-stimuli distinct responsive D–A based fluorogen oligomeric tool and efficient detection of TNT vapor

P1 shows distinct emission responses with multi-stimuli, i.e., quenching for TNT sensing, red shifting for acid and base vapors, blue shifting against MFC behavior, and solvent polarity-dependent emission.

Self-Assembly of Precision Noble Metal Nanoclusters: Hierarchical Structural Complexity, Colloidal Superstructures, and Applications

Ligand protected noble metal nanoparticles are excellent building blocks for colloidal self-assembly. Metal nanoparticle self-assembly offers routes for a wide range of multifunctional nanomaterials with enhanced optoelectronic properties. The emergence of atomically precise monolayer thiol-protected noble metal nanoclusters has overcome numerous challenges such as uncontrolled aggregation, polydispersity, and directionalities faced in plasmonic nanoparticle self-assemblies. Because of their well-defined molecular compositions, enhanced stability, and diverse surface functionalities, nanoclusters offer an excellent platform for developing colloidal superstructures via the self-assembly driven by surface ligands and metal cores. More importantly, recent reports have also revealed the hierarchical structural complexity of several nanoclusters. In this review, the formulation and periodic self-assembly of different noble metal nanoclusters are focused upon. Further, self-assembly induced amplification of physicochemical properties, and their potential applications in molecular recognition, sensing, gas storage, device fabrication, bioimaging, therapeutics, and catalysis are discussed. The topics covered in this review are extensively associated with state-of-the-art achievements in the field of precision noble metal nanoclusters.

Cocrystals of Atomically Precise Noble Metal Nanoclusters

Cocrystallization is a phenomenon involving the assembly of two or more different chemical entities in a lattice, occurring typically through supramolecular interactions. In this concept, recent advancements in the cocrystallization of atomically precise noble metal clusters and their potential future directions are presented. Different strategies to create coassemblies of thiolate-protected noble metal nanoclusters are presented first. An approach is the simultaneous synthesis, and cocrystallization of two clusters having similar structures. A unique pair of clusters found recently, namely Ag₄₀ and Ag₄₆ with same core but different shell are taken to illustrate this. In another category, the case of the same core is presented, namely Ag₁₁₆ with different shells, as in a mixture of Ag₂₁₀ and Ag₂₁₁ . Next, an intercluster reaction is presented to create cocrystals through selective crystallization of the reaction products. The coexistence of competing effects, magic sizes, and magic electron shells in a coassembly of alloy nanoclusters is discussed next. Finally, an assembly strategy for nanoclusters using electrostatic interactions is described. This concept is concluded with a future perspective on the emerging possibilities of such solids. Advancements in this field will certainly help the development of novel materials with exciting properties.

Light-Emitting Atomically Precise Nanocluster-Based Flexible QR Codes for Anticounterfeiting

Despite tremendous progress in the field of fluorescence-based anticounterfeiting, the advanced anticounterfeiting techniques are still posing challenges all over the world due to their cost and reliability. Recently, light-emitting atomically precise nanoclusters have emerged as attractive building blocks because of their well-defined structure, function, and stable photoluminescence. Herein, we report the room temperature fabrication of a stable, flexible, nontoxic, and low-cost precision nanocluster-based luminescent ink for the stencil printing of an optically unclonable security label. Nanocluster-based printing ink shows brilliant photoluminescence owing to its extended C-H···π/π···π interactions. Spectroscopic and microscopic investigations show that intercalated nanoclusters in the printed security labels are highly stable as their optical features and molecular compositions are unaffected. The exceptional mechanical, thermal, photo, and aqueous stabilities of the printed security labels endorse to demonstrate the printing and smartphone-based electronic reading of the quick response code on a currency. Finally, confidential information protection and decryption under a precise window of light have been achieved by adopting the optical contrast illusion. The overall cost of the security label is found to be approximately 0.013 USD per stamp.

Hierarchical Assembly of Atomically Precise Metal Clusters as a Luminescent Strain Sensor

We demonstrate the formation of a versatile luminescent organo-inorganic layered hybrid material, composed of bovine serum albumin (BSA)-protected Au₃₀ clusters and aminoclay sheets. X-ray diffraction revealed the intercalation of Au₃₀@BSA in the layered superstructure of aminoclay sheets. Coulombic attraction of the clusters and the clay initiates the interaction, and the appropriate size of the clusters allowed them to intercalate within the lamellar aminoclay galleries. Electron microscopy measurements confirmed the hierarchical structure of the material and also showed the cluster-attached clay sheets. Zeta potential measurement and dynamic light scattering probed the gradual formation of the ordered aggregates in solution. The hybrid material could be stretched up to 300% without fracture. The emergence of a new peak in the luminescence spectrum was observed during the course of mechanical stretching. This peak increased in intensity gradually with the degree of elongation or strain of the material. A mechanochromic luminescence response was further demonstrated with a writing experiment on a luminescent mat of the material, made by electrospinning.

4-Iodophenylboronic Acid Stabilized Gold Cluster as a New Fluorescent Chemosensor for Saccharides Based on Excimer Emission Quenching

4-iodophenylboronic acid (IPBA) ligated luminescent gold cluster was synthesized by mixing an aqueous solution of IBPA and polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized gold cluster (Au:PVP) in water at room temperature through chemisorption of iodine on gold nano surface. Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM) and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) analysis revealed that the size of these Au-clusters (1.4±0.2 nm) remain unchanged without any noticeable aggregation during synthesis. Owing to the formation of excimer between aryl moieties grafted over Au surface, the cluster exhibit strong emission peak at 335 nm. This luminescent gold cluster is used for sensing different saccharides in water at physiological pH through quenching of excimer emission peak. This strong excimer emission is significantly quenched in presence of saccharides through interaction with boronic acid moieties. The selectivity for different saccharides follows the order: fructose > galactose > maltose > glucose ~ ribose > sorbitol with hight affinity for fructose (K_SV = 1.54 × 10⁴ M^-1) with Limit of Detection (LOD) of 100 μM.

Clean Water through Nanotechnology: Needs, Gaps, and Fulfillment

Sustainable nanotechnology has made substantial contributions in providing contaminant-free water to humanity. In this Review, we present the compelling need for providing access to clean water through nanotechnology-enabled solutions and the large disparities in ensuring their implementation. We also discuss the current nanotechnology frontiers in diverse areas of the clean water space with an emphasis on applications in the field and provide suggestions for future research. Extending the vision of sustainable and affordable clean water to environment in general, we note that cities can live and breathe well by adopting such technologies. By understanding the global environmental challenges and exploring remedies from emerging nanotechnologies, sustainability in clean water can be realized. We suggest specific pointers and quantify the impact of such technologies.

Ultra-sensitive gas phase detection of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene by non-covalently functionalized graphene field effect transistors

The high energy density (4.2 MJ kg-1) and low vapour pressure (7.2 × 10-9 atm) of chemical explosives such as TNT (2,4,6-trinitrotoluene) pose a grave security risk demanding immediate attention. Detection of such hazardous and highly challenging chemicals demands specific, ultra-sensitive and rapid detection platforms that can concomitantly transduce the signal as an electrical readout. Although chemo-sensitive strategies have been investigated, the majority of them are restricted to detecting TNT from solutions and are therefore not implementable in real-time, on-field situations. Addressing this demand, we report an ultra-sensitive (parts-per-billion) and rapid (∼40 s) detection platform for TNT based on non-covalently functionalized graphene field effect transistors (GFETs). This multi-parametric GFET detector exhibits a reliable and specific modulation in its Dirac point upon exposure to TNT in the vapour phase. The chemical specificity provided by 5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tri(p-tolyl) zinc porphyrin (ZnTTPOH) is synergistically combined with the high surface sensitivity of graphene through a non-covalent functionalization approach to realise p-doped GFETs (Zn-GFETs). Such a FET platform exhibits extremely sensitive shifts in Dirac point (ΔDP) that correlate with the number of nitro groups present in the analyte. Analytes with mono-, di-, and tri-nitro substituted aromatic molecules exhibit distinctly different ΔDP, leading to unprecedented specificity towards TNT. Additionally, the Dirac point of Zn-GFETs is invariant for common and potential interferons such as acetone and 2-propanol (perfume emulsifiers) thereby validating their practical applicability. Furthermore, the ΔDP is also manifested as changes in the contact potential of GFETs, indicating that sub-monolayer coverage of ZnTTPOH is sufficient to modulate the transfer characteristics of GFETs over an area 1000 times larger than the dopant dimensions. Specifically, ZnTTPOH-functionalized GFETs exhibit p-doped behaviour with positive ΔDP with respect to pristine GFETs. Such p-doped Zn-GFETs undergo selective charge-transfer mediated interactions with TNT resulting in enhanced electron withdrawal from Zn-GFETs. Thus the ΔDP shifts to a higher positive gate voltage leading to the dichotomous combination of the highest signal generation (1.2 × 1012 V mol-1) with ppb level molecular sensitivity. Significantly, the signal generated due to TNT is 105 times higher in magnitude compared to other potential interferons. The signal reliability is established in cross-sensitivity measurements carried out with a TNT-mDNB (1 : 10 molar ratio) mixture pointing to high specificity for immediate applications under atmospherically relevant conditions pertaining to homeland security and global safety.

An overview on the current understanding of the photophysical properties of metal nanoclusters and their potential applications

Photophysics of atomically precise metal nanoclusters (MNCs) is an emerging area of research due to their potential applications in optoelectronics, photovoltaics, sensing, bio-imaging and catalysis. An overview of the recent advances in the photophysical properties of MNCs is presented in this review. To begin with, we illustrate general synthesis methodologies of MNCs using direct reduction, chemical etching, ligand exchange, metal exchange and intercluster reaction. Due to strong quantum confinement, the NCs possess unique electronic properties such as discrete optical absorption, intense photoluminescence (PL), molecular-like electron dynamics and non-linear optical behavior. Discussions have also been carried out to unveil the influence of the core size, nature of ligands, heteroatom doping, and surrounding environments on the optical absorption and photophysical properties of metal clusters. Recent findings reveal that the excited-state dynamics, nonlinear optical properties and aggregation induced emission of metal clusters offer exciting opportunities for potential applications. We discuss briefly about their versatile applications in optoelectronics, sensing, catalysis and bio-imaging. Finally, the future perspective of this research field is given.

Confining an Ag10 Core in an Ag12 Shell: A Four-Electron Superatom with Enhanced Photoluminescence upon Crystallization

We introduce a cluster coprotected by thiol and diphosphine ligands, [Ag₂₂(dppe)₄(2,5-DMBT)₁₂Cl₄]²⁺ (dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane; 2,5-DMBT= 2,5-dimethylbenzenethiol), which has an Ag₁₀ core encapsulated by an Ag₁₂(dppe)₄(2,5-DMBT)₁₂Cl₄ shell. The Ag₁₀ core comprises two Ag₅ distorted trigonal bipyramidal units and is uncommon in Au and Ag nanoclusters. The electrospray ionization mass spectrum reveals that the cluster is divalent and contains four free electrons. An uncommon crystallization-induced enhancement of emission is observed in the cluster. The emission is weak in the solution and amorphous states. However, it is enhanced 12 times in the crystalline state compared to the amorphous state. A detailed investigation of the crystal structure suggests that well-arranged C-H···π and π···π interactions between the ligands are the major factors for this enhanced emission. Further, in-depth structural elucidation and density functional theory calculations suggest that the cluster is a superatom with four magic electrons.

Ultrarapid Cationization of Gold Nanoparticles via a Single-Step Ligand Exchange Reaction

We propose a novel method for the ultrarapid cationization of gold nanoparticles with diameters ranging from several to a hundred nanometers via a single-step ligand exchange reaction of citrate-protected anionic gold nanoparticles with cationic thiol ligand. This reaction was performed only in an aqueous medium via a single step from citrate to cationic thiol and therefore enables a rapid preparation of cationic Au nanoparticles without a contamination of organic solvent or lipid-soluble molecules. The cationization was successfully completed within 20 min without changes in the core diameter and optical characteristic.

Au25(SR)18: the captain of the great nanocluster ship

Noble metal nanoclusters are in the intermediate state between discrete atoms and plasmonic nanoparticles and are of significance due to their atomically accurate structures, intriguing properties, and great potential for applications in various fields. In addition, the size-dependent properties of nanoclusters construct a platform for thoroughly researching the structure (composition)-property correlations, which is favorable for obtaining novel nanomaterials with enhanced physicochemical properties. Thus far, more than 100 species of nanoclusters (mono-metallic Au or Ag nanoclusters, and bi- or tri-metallic alloy nanoclusters) with crystal structures have been reported. Among these nanoclusters, Au25(SR)18-the brightest molecular star in the nanocluster field-is capable of revealing the past developments and prospecting the future of the nanoclusters. Since being successfully synthesized (in 1998, with a 20-year history) and structurally determined (in 2008, with a 10-year history), Au25(SR)18 has stimulated the interest of chemists as well as material scientists, due to the early discovery, easy preparation, high stability, and easy functionalization and application of this molecular star. In this review, the preparation methods, crystal structures, physicochemical properties, and practical applications of Au25(SR)18 are summarized. The properties of Au25(SR)18 range from optics and chirality to magnetism and electrochemistry, and the property-oriented applications include catalysis, chemical imaging, sensing, biological labeling, biomedicine and beyond. Furthermore, the research progress on the Ag-based M25(SR)18 counterpart (i.e., Ag25(SR)18) is included in this review due to its homologous composition, construction and optical absorption to its gold-counterpart Au25(SR)18. Moreover, the alloying methods, metal-exchange sites and property alternations based on the templated Au25(SR)18 are highlighted. Finally, some perspectives and challenges for the future research of the Au25(SR)18 nanocluster are proposed (also holding true for all members in the nanocluster field). This review is directed toward the broader scientific community interested in the metal nanocluster field, and hopefully opens up new horizons for scientists studying nanomaterials. This review is based on the publications available up to March 2018.

Three-dimensional direct visualization of silica dispersion in polymer-based composites

We present a novel strategy for realizing the three-dimensional direct visualization of silica dispersion by the fluorescence modification of a silica filler.

Blood brain barrier permeable gold nanocluster for targeted brain imaging and therapy: an in vitro and in vivo study

Blood brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic interface, comprising polarized endothelial cells, that separates the brain from the circulatory system. The highly protective nature of this tight junction impairs diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders. In this study, we designed a sub atomic size, near infrared emitting, dual function glutathione gold cluster with high fluorescence yield to facilitate permeability of BBB, for imaging applications and drug delivery. The gold cluster was then modified with Levodopa (l-dopa), to utilize the large amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) pathways to enhance brain entry. Uptake and permeability of the nanoprobes were demonstrated using an established model of BBB, comprising brain endothelial cells (bEnd.3). The uptake and the clearance of l-dopa modified cluster was faster than the glutathione cluster. l-Dopa modified cluster supports the slow and sustained delivery of a model drug, pilocarpine, to the brain. Results of in vivo imaging and drug release in normal mice hold promise for considering the probe for early diagnosis of brain diseases, when the barrier is not disrupted, and for subsequent drug treatment.

Pt(II)C∧N∧N-Based Luminophore-Micelle Adducts for Sensing Nitroaromatic Explosives

Two luminescent cyclometalated Pt(II)-complexes, 1•Pt and 2•Pt, respectively, were synthesized by using unsymmetrical C^∧N^∧N ligands having different alkyl substituents. These π-electron-rich complexes are used for sensing various electron deficient nitroaromatic explosives, e.g., 4-nitrotoluene (NT), 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), and 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP), in aqueous, nonaqueous, as well as in the solid state as a paper strip with maximum detection limit of ca. 10^-9 M. It was demonstrated that the sparingly soluble 2•Pt complex becomes water-soluble in the presence of all kinds of surfactants, viz., cationic (e.g., cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, CTAB), anionic (e.g., sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS), and neutral (e.g., Triton X-100). This may be due to the incorporation of its long lyophilic tail group (-C₁₂H₂₅) inside the micellar core, exposing planar Pt(II)C^∧N^∧N headgroup to the aqueous bulk phase. It was also observed that the extent of solubility of these Pt(II)-complexes in micellar media strongly depends on the length of the existing alkyl chain. For instance, the presence of longer dodecyl chain makes 2•Pt complex ca. 1000-fold more soluble than the complex 1•Pt, which contains a shorter propyl chain. Their sensing behavior essentially arises by the quenching of Pt(II)-based intense luminescence due to the supramolecular charge transfer (CT) process originating from Pt(II)C^∧N^∧N-antenna to the electron deficient nitroaromatic explosives. Our present work shows that the micellar adducts formed by highly luminophoric material and surfactant molecules could effectively detect such explosives in aqueous medium with better sensitivity compared to what were observed in other media.

Preparation of hyperstar polymers with encapsulated Au25(SR)18 clusters as recyclable catalysts for nitrophenol reduction

A robust approach is developed to prepare hyperstar polymer-Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ nanocomposites for catalysis. The synthesis started with atom transfer radical copolymerization of an inimer with a cyclic disulfide-containing methacrylate monomer in a microemulsion to produce hyperbranched copolymers with high molar mass, low polydispersity, and a vital fraction of dangling disulfide groups. The core-shell structured hyperstar polymers were then prepared using hyperbranched copolymers as macroinitiators to polymerize oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (M_n = 500) and grow the radiating arms. The hyperstar polymers with disulfide groups were proved to efficiently encapsulate Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ nanoclusters through ligand exchange without destroying the fine structure of the Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ clusters. The obtained hyperstar-Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ nanocomposites showed great stability with no size change after a three-month shelf storage. They were used as efficient catalysts for the catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol by NaBH₄, showing convenient recovery and reuse without losing catalytic efficiency.

A single molecular fluorescent probe for selective and sensitive detection of nitroaromatic explosives: A new strategy for the mask-free discrimination of TNT and TNP within same sample

A simple naphthalene based fluorescent probe was first time reported as dual sensing of 2,4,6-trinitrotolune (TNT) and 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (TNP) by distinguishable changes in both solution color change and fluorescence within same sample without any mask agent. Upon addition of TNT and TNP, the strong emission quenching at 412nm and a new emission band at 530nm was observed, respectively. In addition, the sensing mechanism was evaluated by DFT calculations by Gaussian 09 software.

Unusual reactivity of dithiol protected clusters in comparison to monothiol protected clusters: studies using Ag51(BDT)19(TPP)3 and Ag29(BDT)12(TPP)4

We report the synthesis and unique reactivity of a new green dithiol protected cluster (DTPC), Ag₅₁(BDT)₁₉(TPP)₃ (BDT and TPP are 1,3-benzenedithiol and triphenylphosphine, respectively). The cluster composition was confirmed by electrospray ionization (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) mass spectrometric studies as well as by other supporting data. Surprisingly, the chemical reactivity between this DTPC and Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ involves only metal ion exchange in Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ without any ligand exchange, while reactions between monothiol protected clusters (MTPCs) show both metal and ligand exchange, an example being the reaction between Ag₂₅DMBT₁₈ and Au₂₅PET₁₈ (where DMBT and PET are 2,4-dimethylbenzenethiol and phenylethanethiol, respectively). The conclusions have been confirmed by the reaction of another DTPC, Ag₂₉(BDT)₁₂(TPP)₄ with Au₂₅BT₁₈ (where BT corresponds to butanethiol) in which only metal exchange happens in Au₂₅BT₁₈. We also show the conversion of Ag₅₁(BDT)₁₉(TPP)₃ to Ag₂₉(BDT)₁₂(TPP)₄ in the presence of a second monothiol, DMBT which does not get integrated into the product cluster. This is completely different from the previous understanding wherein the reaction between MTPCs and a second thiol leads to either mixed thiol protected clusters with the same core composition or a completely new cluster core protected with the second thiol. The present study exposes a new avenue of research for monolayer protected clusters, which in turn will give additional impetus to explore the chemistry of DTPCs.

A flexible conductive film prepared by the oriented stacking of Ag and Au/Ag alloy nanoplates and its chemically roughened surface for explosive SERS detection and cell adhesion

A Au–Ag alloy with oriented stacking has applications in SERS detection and cell adhesion.

Development of luminescent sensors based on transition metal complexes for the detection of nitroexplosives

The detection of nitro explosives by transition metal complexes/metallosupramolecules with their designs and sensing mechanisms are comprehensively reviewed.

Structure-conserving spontaneous transformations between nanoparticles

Ambient, structure- and topology-preserving chemical reactions between two archetypal nanoparticles, Ag₂₅(SR)₁₈ and Au₂₅(SR)₁₈, are presented. Despite their geometric robustness and electronic stability, reactions between them in solution produce alloys, Ag_mAu_n(SR)₁₈ (m+n=25), keeping their M₂₅(SR)₁₈ composition, structure and topology intact. We demonstrate that a mixture of Ag₂₅(SR)₁₈ and Au₂₅(SR)₁₈ can be transformed to any arbitrary alloy composition, Ag_mAu_n(SR)₁₈ (n=1-24), merely by controlling the reactant compositions. We capture one of the earliest events of the process, namely the formation of the dianionic adduct, (Ag₂₅Au₂₅(SR)₃₆)^2-, by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Molecular docking simulations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations also suggest that metal atom exchanges occur through the formation of an adduct between the two clusters. DFT calculations further confirm that metal atom exchanges are thermodynamically feasible. Such isomorphous transformations between nanoparticles imply that microscopic pieces of matter can be transformed completely to chemically different entities, preserving their structures, at least in the nanometric regime.

Choline-induced selective fluorescence quenching of acetylcholinesterase conjugated Au@BSA clusters

We have developed a highly selective sensitive fluorescent detection of acetylcholine (ACh) using bovine serum albumin (BSA) protected atomically precise clusters of gold. The gold quantum clusters (AuQC@BSA) synthesized using bovine serum albumin and conjugated with acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme specific for acetylcholine, resulting in AuQC@BSA-AChE. The enzyme, AChE hydrolyzes acetylcholine (ACh) to choline (Ch) which in turn interacts with AuQC@BSA-AChE and quenches its fluorescence, enabling sensing. We have carried out the real time monitoring of the hydrolysis of ACh using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) to find out the mechanism of fluorescent quenching. The validity of present method for determination of concentration of acetylcholine in real system such as blood was demonstrated. Further, the sensor, AuQC@BSA-AChE can be easily coated on paper and an efficient and cheap sensor can be developed and detection limit for ACh is found to be 10nM. The fluorescent intensity of AuQC@BSA-AChE is sensitive towards acetylcholine in range of 10nM to 6.4µM. This suggests that AuQC@BSA-AChE has an excellent potential to be used for diagnosis of various neuropsychological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Efficient red luminescence from organic-soluble Au₂₅ clusters by ligand structure modification

An efficient method to enhance visible luminescence in a visibly non-luminescent organic-soluble 4-(tert butyl)benzyl mercaptan (SBB)-stabilized Au25 cluster has been developed. This method relies mainly on enhancing the surface charge density on the cluster by creating an additional shell of thiolate on the cluster surface, which enhances visible luminescence. The viability of this method has been demonstrated by imparting red luminescence to various ligand-protected quantum clusters (QCs), observable to the naked eye. The bright red luminescent material derived from Au25SBB18 clusters was characterized using UV-vis and luminescence spectroscopy, TEM, SEM/EDS, XPS, TG, ESI and MALDI mass spectrometry, which collectively proposed an uncommon molecular formula of Au29SBB24S, suggested to be due to different stapler motifs protecting the Au25 core. The critical role of temperature on the emergence of luminescence in QCs has been studied. The restoration of the surface ligand shell on the Au25 cluster and subsequent physicochemical modification to the cluster were probed by various mass spectral and spectroscopic techniques. Our results provide fundamental insights into the ligand characteristics determining luminescence in QCs.

Fluorescence based explosive detection: from mechanisms to sensory materials

The detection of explosives is one of the current pressing concerns in global security. In the past few decades, a large number of emissive sensing materials have been developed for the detection of explosives in vapor, solution, and solid states through fluorescence methods. In recent years, great efforts have been devoted to develop new fluorescent materials with various sensing mechanisms for detecting explosives in order to achieve super-sensitivity, ultra-selectivity, as well as fast response time. This review article starts with a brief introduction on various sensing mechanisms for fluorescence based explosive detection, and then summarizes in an exhaustive and systematic way the state-of-the-art of fluorescent materials for explosive detection with a focus on the research in the recent 5 years. A wide range of fluorescent materials, such as conjugated polymers, small fluorophores, supramolecular systems, bio-inspired materials and aggregation induced emission-active materials, and their sensing performance and sensing mechanism are the centerpiece of this review. Finally, conclusions and future outlook are presented and discussed.

A strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (SPAAC) reaction of a novel EpCAM aptamer-fluorescent conjugate for imaging of cancer cells

For the first time, a novel EpCAM aptamer (SYL3C)-DIBO-AF594 fluorescent conjugate was synthesised by bioorthogonal chemistry utilizing a strain promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (copper free click) reaction (SPAAC). The ligation efficiency of SPAAC was improved by freeze-thaw cycles. The obtained conjugate showed target specific binding and aided in the imaging of various EpCAM positive cancer cell lines like MCF7, MDAMB453, Weri-RB1 and PC3.

Ultratrace Detection of Nitroaromatics: Picric Acid Responsive Aggregation/Disaggregation of Self-Assembled p-Terphenylbenzimidazolium-Based Molecular Baskets

1-(p-Terphenyl)-benzimidazolium (TRIPOD-TP) molecules undergo self-assembly to form rodlike structures in aqueous medium, as shown by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering studies. Upon gradual addition of picric acid (PA), these aggregates undergo an aggregation/disaggregation process to complex morphological structures (10(-12)-10(-10) M PA) and spherical aggregates (10(-9)-10(-8) M PA). These spherical aggregates undergo further dissolution to well-dispersed spheres between 10(-7)-10(-6) M PA. During fluorescence studies, these aggregates demonstrate superamplified fluorescence quenching (>97%) in the presence of 10(-5) to 0.2 equiv of the probe concentration, an unprecedented process with PA. The lowest detection limits by solution of TRIPOD-TP are 5 × 10(-13) PA, 50 × 10(-12) M 2,4-dinitrophenol, 200 × 10(-12) M 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, and 1 nM 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene. Paper strips dipped in the solution of TRIPOD-TP demonstrate quantitative fluorescence quenching between 10(-17) and 10(-6) M PA using front-surface steady state studies and can measure as low as 2.29 × 10(-20) g/cm(2) PA.