1
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Yamaguchi M, Nakamura Y, Watanabe H, Kimoto K, Oaki Y, Shimode S, Imai H. A biogenic geodesic dome of the silica skeleton in Phaeodaria. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13481. [PMID: 38866850 PMCID: PMC11169525 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64227-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Unique architectures of microbial skeletons are viewed as a model for the architectural design of artificial structural materials. In particular, the specific geometric arrangement of a spherical skeleton 0.5-1.5 mm in diameter of shell-bearing protists, Phaeodaria (Aulosphaera sp.), is remarkably interesting because of its similarity to a geodesic polyhedron, which is a hollow framework with 6-branched nodes that requires minimal building material for maximal strength. A phaeodarian skeleton composed of silica rods 5-10 µm in diameter was characterized as a distorted dome that is based on an icosahedron sectioned with a 7-frequency subdivision. The major difference of the biogenic architecture from the ideal geodesic dome is the coexistence of 7- and 5-branched nodes with the distortion of the frames and the presence of radial spines. From a microscopic perspective, the frames and radial spines were revealed to be hollow tubes having inner fibers and lamellar walls consisting of silica nanoparticles 4-8 nm in diameter with interlayer organic matter. The high degradability of the silica skeleton in seawater after cell mortality is ascribed to the specific nanometric composite structure. The biological architectonics sheds light on the production of environmentally friendly, lightweight structural materials and microdevices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momoka Yamaguchi
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Yasuhide Nakamura
- Estuary Research Center, Shimane University, 1060 Nishikawatsu-cho, Matsue-shi, Shimane, 690-8504, Japan
| | - Hiroto Watanabe
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Katsunori Kimoto
- Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), Natsushima-cho 2-15, Yokosuka, 237-0061, Japan
| | - Yuya Oaki
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Shinji Shimode
- Manazuru Marine Center for Environmental Research and Education, Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University, 61 Iwa, Manazuru, 259-0202, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Imai
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan.
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2
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De Tommasi E, Rea I, Ferrara MA, De Stefano L, De Stefano M, Al-Handal AY, Stamenković M, Wulff A. Multiple-pathways light modulation in Pleurosigma strigosum bi-raphid diatom. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6476. [PMID: 38499606 PMCID: PMC10948915 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56206-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Ordered, quasi-ordered, and even disordered nanostructures can be identified as constituent components of several protists, plants and animals, making possible an efficient manipulation of light for intra- and inter- species communication, camouflage, or for the enhancement of primary production. Diatoms are ubiquitous unicellular microalgae inhabiting all the aquatic environments on Earth. They developed, through tens of millions of years of evolution, ultrastructured silica cell walls, the frustules, able to handle optical radiation through multiple diffractive, refractive, and wave-guiding processes, possibly at the basis of their high photosynthetic efficiency. In this study, we employed a range of imaging, spectroscopic and numerical techniques (including transmission imaging, digital holography, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and numerical simulations based on wide-angle beam propagation method) to identify and describe different mechanisms by which Pleurosigma strigosum frustules can modulate optical radiation of different spectral content. Finally, we correlated the optical response of the frustule to the interaction with light in living, individual cells within their aquatic environment following various irradiation treatments. The obtained results demonstrate the favorable transmission of photosynthetic active radiation inside the cell compared to potentially detrimental ultraviolet radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo De Tommasi
- National Research Council, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "E. Caianiello", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Ilaria Rea
- National Research Council, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "E. Caianiello", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Ferrara
- National Research Council, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "E. Caianiello", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca De Stefano
- National Research Council, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "E. Caianiello", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario De Stefano
- Department of Environmental, Biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Via Vivaldi 43, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Adil Y Al-Handal
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Marija Stamenković
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden
- Department of Ecology, Institute for Biological Research "Sinisa Stankovic", University of Belgrade, Bulevar despota Stefana 142, Belgrade, 11060, Serbia
| | - Angela Wulff
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, 405 30, Göteborg, Sweden.
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3
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Ghobara M, Oschatz C, Fratzl P, Reissig L. Numerical Analysis of the Light Modulation by the Frustule of Gomphonema parvulum: The Role of Integrated Optical Components. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 13:nano13010113. [PMID: 36616023 PMCID: PMC9823621 DOI: 10.3390/nano13010113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Siliceous diatom frustules present a huge variety of shapes and nanometric pore patterns. A better understanding of the light modulation by these frustules is required to determine whether or not they might have photobiological roles besides their possible utilization as building blocks in photonic applications. In this study, we propose a novel approach for analyzing the near-field light modulation by small pennate diatom frustules, utilizing the frustule of Gomphonema parvulum as a model. Numerical analysis was carried out for the wave propagation across selected 2D cross-sections in a statistically representative 3D model for the valve based on the finite element frequency domain method. The influences of light wavelength (vacuum wavelengths from 300 to 800 nm) and refractive index changes, as well as structural parameters, on the light modulation were investigated and compared to theoretical predictions when possible. The results showed complex interference patterns resulting from the overlay of different optical phenomena, which can be explained by the presence of a few integrated optical components in the valve. Moreover, studies on the complete frustule in an aqueous medium allow the discussion of its possible photobiological relevance. Furthermore, our results may enable the simple screening of unstudied pennate frustules for photonic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ghobara
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Cathleen Oschatz
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Department of Biomaterials, Research Campus Golm, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Peter Fratzl
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Department of Biomaterials, Research Campus Golm, Am Mühlenberg 1, 14476 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Louisa Reissig
- Institute of Experimental Physics, Freie Universität Berlin, Arnimallee 14, 14195 Berlin, Germany
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4
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Liu F, Gledhill M, Tan QG, Zhu K, Zhang Q, Salaün P, Tagliabue A, Zhang Y, Weiss D, Achterberg EP, Korchev Y. Phycosphere pH of unicellular nano- and micro- phytoplankton cells and consequences for iron speciation. THE ISME JOURNAL 2022; 16:2329-2336. [PMID: 35798938 PMCID: PMC9478132 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-022-01280-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Surface ocean pH is declining due to anthropogenic atmospheric CO2 uptake with a global decline of ~0.3 possible by 2100. Extracellular pH influences a range of biological processes, including nutrient uptake, calcification and silicification. However, there are poor constraints on how pH levels in the extracellular microenvironment surrounding phytoplankton cells (the phycosphere) differ from bulk seawater. This adds uncertainty to biological impacts of environmental change. Furthermore, previous modelling work suggests that phycosphere pH of small cells is close to bulk seawater, and this has not been experimentally verified. Here we observe under 140 μmol photons·m−2·s−1 the phycosphere pH of Chlamydomonas concordia (5 µm diameter), Emiliania huxleyi (5 µm), Coscinodiscus radiatus (50 µm) and C. wailesii (100 µm) are 0.11 ± 0.07, 0.20 ± 0.09, 0.41 ± 0.04 and 0.15 ± 0.20 (mean ± SD) higher than bulk seawater (pH 8.00), respectively. Thickness of the pH boundary layer of C. wailesii increases from 18 ± 4 to 122 ± 17 µm when bulk seawater pH decreases from 8.00 to 7.78. Phycosphere pH is regulated by photosynthesis and extracellular enzymatic transformation of bicarbonate, as well as being influenced by light intensity and seawater pH and buffering capacity. The pH change alters Fe speciation in the phycosphere, and hence Fe availability to phytoplankton is likely better predicted by the phycosphere, rather than bulk seawater. Overall, the precise quantification of chemical conditions in the phycosphere is crucial for assessing the sensitivity of marine phytoplankton to ongoing ocean acidification and Fe limitation in surface oceans.
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5
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Owari Y, Nakamura F, Oaki Y, Tsuda H, Shimode S, Imai H. Ultrastructure of setae of a planktonic diatom, Chaetoceros coarctatus. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7568. [PMID: 35534511 PMCID: PMC9085750 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11484-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Silica frustules of most planktonic diatoms have many shallow holes in which the length (L) is smaller than the width (W). The present study focuses on a silica ultrastructure of setae of a planktonic diatom having deep (L/W > 1) holes. Here, we characterized microscopically patterned nanoholes on the silica walls of thick, robust, and hollow setae of a colony of Chaetoceros coarctatus. Basically, tetragonal poroid arrangements with and without a costa pattern are observed on the inner and outer surfaces, respectively, for three kinds of curving hollow setae attached to the anterior, intercalary, and posterior parts of the colony. The seta structures including specific poroid arrangements and continuity of deep nanoholes depend on the location. The deep nanoholes ∼90 nm wide are elongated from 150 to 1500 nm (L/W ∼17) with an increase in the wall thickness of the polygonal tubes of the setae. The inside poroid array, with a period of 190 nm in the extension direction of setae, is lined by parallel plates of the costae. However, the poroid arrangement on the outer surface is disordered, with several holes obstructed with increasing wall thickness of the posterior terminal setae. According to the movement of a colony in a fluid microchannel, the thick curving terminal setae is suggested to involve attitude control and mechanical protection. Using an optical simulation, the patterned deep through-holes on the intercalary setae were suggested to contribute anti-reflection of blue light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm for the promotion of photosynthesis in seawater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Owari
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Fumi Nakamura
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Yuya Oaki
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Tsuda
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Shinji Shimode
- Manazuru Marine Center for Environmental Research and Education, Graduate School of Environment and Information Sciences, Yokohama National University, 61 Iwa, Manazuru, 259-0202, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Imai
- School of Integrated Design Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan.
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6
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De Tommasi E, De Luca AC. Diatom biosilica in plasmonics: applications in sensing, diagnostics and therapeutics [Invited]. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 13:3080-3101. [PMID: 35774319 PMCID: PMC9203090 DOI: 10.1364/boe.457483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Several living organisms are able to synthesize complex nanostructures provided with peculiar physical and chemical properties by means of finely-tuned, genetically controlled biomineralization processes. Frustules, in particular, are micro- and nano-structured silica shells produced by ubiquitous diatom microalgae, whose optical properties have been recently exploited in photonics, solar energy harvesting, and biosensing. Metallization of diatom biosilica, both in the shape of intact frustules or diatomite particles, can trigger plasmonic effects that in turn can find application in high-sensitive detection platforms, allowing to obtain effective nanosensors at low cost and on a large scale. The aim of the present review article is to provide a wide, complete overview on the main metallization techniques applied to diatom biosilica and on the principal applications of diatom-based plasmonic devices mainly but not exclusively in the fields of biochemical sensing, diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo De Tommasi
- National Research Council, Institute of Applied Sciences and Intelligent Systems "Eduardo Caianiello", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, I-80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna Chiara De Luca
- National Research Council, Institute for Endocrinology and Experimental Oncology "Gaetano Salvatore", Unit of Naples, Via P. Castellino 111, I-80131, Naples, Italy
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7
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Font-Muñoz JS, Sourisseau M, Cohen-Sánchez A, Tuval I, Basterretxea G. Pelagic diatoms communicate through synchronized beacon natural fluorescence signaling. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabj5230. [PMID: 34910521 PMCID: PMC8673755 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abj5230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Communication between conspecific individuals is an essential part of life both in terrestrial and marine realms. Until recently, social behavior in marine phytoplankton was assumed to rely mainly on the secretion of a variety of infochemicals that allowed population-scale collective responses. Here, we demonstrate that pelagic diatoms also use Sun-stimulated fluorescence signals for synchronizing their behavior. These unicellular microorganisms, playing a key biogeochemical role in the ocean, use photoreceptor proteins and red–far-red fluorescent radiation to communicate. A characteristic beaconing signal is generated by rhythmic organelle displacement within the cell cytoplasm, triggering coordinated population behavior. These light-based communication networks could critically determine major facets of diatom ecology and fitness and regulate the dynamics of larger-scale ocean processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan S. Font-Muñoz
- IFREMER, French Institute for Sea Research, DYNECO PELAGOS, 29280 Plouzané, France
- Université de Brest-UBO/CNRS/IFREMER/IRD, 29238 Brest, France
| | - Marc Sourisseau
- IFREMER, French Institute for Sea Research, DYNECO PELAGOS, 29280 Plouzané, France
| | - Amanda Cohen-Sánchez
- Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies, IMEDEA (UIB-CSIC), Miquel Marques 21, 07190 Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Idan Tuval
- Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies, IMEDEA (UIB-CSIC), Miquel Marques 21, 07190 Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain
- Department of Physics, University of the Balearic Islands, Ctra. Valldemossa Km. 7.5, 07122 Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Gotzon Basterretxea
- Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies, IMEDEA (UIB-CSIC), Miquel Marques 21, 07190 Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain
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8
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Value-added co-products from biomass of the diatoms Staurosirella pinnata and Phaeodactylum tricornutum. ALGAL RES 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2020.101830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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9
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Bandara TMWJ, Furlani M, Albinsson I, Wulff A, Mellander BE. Diatom frustules enhancing the efficiency of gel polymer electrolyte based dye-sensitized solar cells with multilayer photoelectrodes. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2020; 2:199-209. [PMID: 36134008 PMCID: PMC9419529 DOI: 10.1039/c9na00679f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of nanostructures that improve light scattering and dye adsorption has been suggested for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), but the manufacture of photonic and nanostructured materials with the desired properties is not an easy task. In nature, however, the process of light-harvesting for photosynthesis has, in some cases, evolved structures with remarkable wavelength-sensitive light-trapping properties. The present work is focused on enhancing the efficiency of quasi solid-state DSSCs by capitalizing on the light trapping properties of diatom frustules since they provide complex 3-dimensional structures for scattering and trapping light. This study reports a promising approach to prepare TiO2 nanocrystal (14 nm) based photo-electrodes by utilizing the waveguiding and photon localization effects of nanostructured diatom frustules for enhancing light harvesting without deteriorating the electron conduction. Single and double-layered photo-electrodes were prepared with different frustule/nanocrystal combinations and conformations on transparent conductive oxide substrates. This study clearly reports impressive efficiency and short circuit current density enhancements of about 35% and 39%, respectively, due to the incorporation of diatom frustules extracted from a ubiquitous species. The SEM images obtained in this work reveal that the produced thin films had a remarkable surface coverage of evenly distributed frustules within the TiO2 nanoparticle layer. To the best of our knowledge, this study reports the first quasi solid-state DSSC based on a photo-electrode with incorporated bio-formed nanostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M W J Bandara
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology Gothenburg Sweden
- Department of Physics, Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya Sri Lanka
| | - M Furlani
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
| | - I Albinsson
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
| | - Angela Wulff
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg Gothenburg Sweden
| | - B-E Mellander
- Department of Physics, Chalmers University of Technology Gothenburg Sweden
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10
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Rea I, De Stefano L. Recent Advances on Diatom-Based Biosensors. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E5208. [PMID: 31795066 PMCID: PMC6929068 DOI: 10.3390/s19235208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Porous materials showing some useful transducing features, i.e., any changes in their physical or chemical properties as a consequence of molecular interaction, are very attractive in the realization of sensors and biosensors. Diatom frustules have been gaining support for biosensors since they are made of nanostructured amorphous silica, but do not require any nano-fabrication step; their surface can be easily functionalized and customized for specific application; diatom frustules are photoluminescent, and they can be found in almost every pond of water on the Earth, thus assuring large and low-cost availability. In this review, the most recent advances in diatom-based biosensors are reported, and a perspective view on future developments is given.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca De Stefano
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, National Research Council, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Napoli, Italy;
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11
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Distributed Bragg Reflectors for GaN-Based Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app9081593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) is a key building block in the formation of semiconductor microcavities and vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs). The success in epitaxial GaAs DBR mirrors paved the way for the ubiquitous deployment of III-V VCSELs in communication and mobile applications. However, a similar development of GaN-based blue VCSELs has been hindered by challenges in preparing DBRs that are mass producible. In this article, we provide a review of the history and current status of forming DBRs for GaN VCSELs. In general, the preparation of DBRs requires an optimization of epitaxy/fabrication processes, together with trading off parameters in optical, electrical, and thermal properties. The effort of epitaxial DBRs commenced in the 1990s and has evolved from using AlGaN, AlN, to using lattice-matched AlInN with GaN for DBRs. In parallel, dielectric DBRs have been studied since 2000 and have gone through a few design variations including epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) and vertical external cavity surface emitting lasers (VECSEL). A recent trend is the use of selective etching to incorporate airgap or nanoporous GaN as low-index media in an epitaxial GaN DBR structure. The nanoporous GaN DBR represents an offshoot from the traditional epitaxial approach and may provide the needed flexibility in forming manufacturable GaN VCSELs. The trade-offs and limitations of each approach are also presented.
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12
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UV-shielding and wavelength conversion by centric diatom nanopatterned frustules. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16285. [PMID: 30390006 PMCID: PMC6214969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34651-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diatoms can represent the major component of phytoplankton and contribute massively to global primary production in the oceans. Over tens of millions of years they developed an intricate porous silica shell, the frustule, which ensures mechanical protection, sorting of nutrients from harmful agents, and optimization of light harvesting. Several groups of microalgae evolved different strategies of protection towards ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which is harmful for all living organisms mainly through the formation of dimeric photoproducts between adjacent pyrimidines in DNA. Even in presence of low concentrations of UV-absorbing compounds, several diatoms exhibit significant UVR tolerance. We here investigated the mechanisms involved in UVR screening by diatom silica investments focusing on single frustules of a planktonic centric diatom, Coscinodiscus wailesii, analyzing absorption by the silica matrix, diffraction by frustule ultrastructure and also UV conversion into photosynthetically active radiation exerted by nanostructured silica photoluminescence. We identified the defects and organic residuals incorporated in frustule silica matrix which mainly contribute to absorption; simulated and measured the spatial distribution of UVR transmitted by a single valve, finding that it is confined far away from the diatom valve itself; furthermore, we showed how UV-to-blue radiation conversion (which is particularly significant for photosynthetic productivity) is more efficient than other emission transitions in the visible spectral range.
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13
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Maher S, Kumeria T, Aw MS, Losic D. Diatom Silica for Biomedical Applications: Recent Progress and Advances. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1800552. [PMID: 30118185 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Diatoms are unicellular photosynthetic algae enclosed in porous 3D nanopatterned silica enclosures called "frustules." The diatom frustules are made from biosilica self-assembled into intricate porous shells that feature unique properties including high specific surface area, biocompatibility, tailorable surface chemistry, thermal stability, and high mechanical and chemical resistance. The ability to cultivate diatoms in artificial environments and their abundant availability of diatom frustules as mineable fossilized mineral deposits (diatomite or diatomaceous earth; DE) make diatom silica a promising natural alternative to synthetic porous silica for a broad range of biomedical, environmental, agricultural, and energy applications. This review article provides a comprehensive and current account of the use of natural DE silica materials in biomedical applications focused mainly on drug delivery with some highlights on biosensing, tissue engineering, and clotting agents. The article also covers some basic physical and chemical aspects of DE material such as purification, surface chemical functionalization, biocompatibility, and cellular uptake that are critical for the development of an efficient drug carrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaheer Maher
- School of Chemical Engineering The University of Adelaide Engineering North Building 5005 Adelaide Australia
| | - Tushar Kumeria
- School of Pharmacy The University of Queensland Pharmacy Australia Center of Excellence Building Woolloongabba Queensland 4102 Australia
| | - Moom Sin Aw
- School of Chemical Engineering The University of Adelaide Engineering North Building 5005 Adelaide Australia
| | - Dusan Losic
- School of Chemical Engineering The University of Adelaide Engineering North Building 5005 Adelaide Australia
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14
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Managò S, Zito G, Rogato A, Casalino M, Esposito E, De Luca AC, De Tommasi E. Bioderived Three-Dimensional Hierarchical Nanostructures as Efficient Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates for Cell Membrane Probing. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:12406-12416. [PMID: 29569901 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b19285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we propose the use of complex, bioderived nanostructures as efficient surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates for chemical analysis of cellular membranes. These structures were directly obtained from a suitable gold metalization of the Pseudonitzchia multistriata diatom silica shell (the so called frustule), whose grating-like geometry provides large light coupling with external radiation, whereas its extruded, subwavelength lateral edge provides an excellent interaction with cells without steric hindrance. We carried out numerical simulations and experimental characterizations of the supported plasmonic resonances and optical near-field amplification. We thoroughly evaluated the SERS substrate enhancement factor as a function of the metalization parameters and finally applied the nanostrucures for discriminating cell membrane Raman signals. In particular, we considered two cases where the membrane composition plays a fundamental role in the assessment of several pathologies, that is, red blood cells and B-leukemia REH cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessandra Rogato
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology , Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn , Naples 80121 , Italy
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15
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Farthing NE, Findlay RC, Jikeli JF, Walrad PB, Bees MA, Wilson LG. Simultaneous two-color imaging in digital holographic microscopy. OPTICS EXPRESS 2017; 25:28489-28500. [PMID: 31956278 PMCID: PMC6968951 DOI: 10.1364/oe.25.028489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate the use of two-color digital holographic microscopy (DHM) for imaging microbiological subjects. The use of two wavelengths significantly reduces artifacts present in the reconstructed data, allowing us to image weakly-scattering objects in close proximity to strongly-scattering objects. We demonstrate this by reconstructing the shape of the flagellum of a unicellular eukaryotic parasite Leishmania mexicana in close proximity to a more strongly-scattering cell body. Our approach also yields a reduction of approximately one third in the axial position uncertainty when tracking the motion of swimming cells at low magnification, which we demonstrate with a sample of Escherichia coli bacteria mixed with polystyrene beads. The two-wavelength system that we describe introduces minimal additional complexity into the optical system, and provides significant benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola E. Farthing
- Department of Physics, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- Department of Mathematics, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Rachel C. Findlay
- Department of Physics, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Jan F. Jikeli
- Biophysical Imaging, Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Pegine B. Walrad
- Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Martin A. Bees
- Department of Mathematics, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Laurence G. Wilson
- Department of Physics, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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16
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De Tommasi E, Gielis J, Rogato A. Diatom Frustule Morphogenesis and Function: a Multidisciplinary Survey. Mar Genomics 2017; 35:1-18. [PMID: 28734733 DOI: 10.1016/j.margen.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Diatoms represent the major component of phytoplankton and are responsible for about 20-25% of global primary production. Hundreds of millions of years of evolution led to tens of thousands of species differing in dimensions and morphologies. In particular, diatom porous silica cell walls, the frustules, are characterized by an extraordinary, species-specific diversity. It is of great interest, among the marine biologists and geneticists community, to shed light on the origin and evolutionary advantage of this variability of dimensions, geometries and pore distributions. In the present article the main reported data related to frustule morphogenesis and functionalities with contributions from fundamental biology, genetics, mathematics, geometry and physics are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo De Tommasi
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Johan Gielis
- University of Antwerp, Department of Bioscience Engineering, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Rogato
- Institute of Biosciences and BioResources, CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy; Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Villa Comunale 1, 80121 Naples, Italy.
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17
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Rea I, Terracciano M, De Stefano L. Synthetic vs Natural: Diatoms Bioderived Porous Materials for the Next Generation of Healthcare Nanodevices. Adv Healthc Mater 2017; 6. [PMID: 28026914 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201601125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nanostructured porous materials promise a next generation of innovative devices for healthcare and biomedical applications. The fabrication of such materials generally requires complex synthesis procedures, not always available in laboratories or sustainable in industries, and has adverse environmental impact. Nanosized porous materials can also be obtained from natural resources, which are an attractive alternative approach to man-made fabrication. Biogenic nanoporous silica from diatoms, and diatomaceous earths, constitutes largely available, low-cost reservoir of mesoporous nanodevices that can be engineered for theranostic applications, ranging from subcellular imaging to drug delivery. In this progress report, main experiences on nature-derived nanoparticles with healthcare and biomedical functionalities are reviewed and critically analyzed in search of a new collection of biocompatible porous nanomaterials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Rea
- Via P. Castellino 111 Napoli 80131 Italy
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18
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The Diatom Staurosirella pinnata for Photoactive Material Production. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0165571. [PMID: 27828985 PMCID: PMC5102471 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A native isolate of the colonial benthic diatom Staurosirella pinnata was cultivated for biosilica production. The silicified cell walls (frustules) were used as a source of homogeneous and structurally predictable porous biosilica for dye trapping and random laser applications. This was coupled with the extraction of lipids from biomass showing potential to fabricate photoactive composite materials sustainably. The strain was selected for its ease of growth in culture and harvesting. Biosilica and lipids were obtained at the end of growth in indoor photobioreactors. Frustules were structurally characterized microscopically and their chemistry analyzed with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Frustule capacity of binding laser dyes was evaluated on a set of frustules/Rhodamine B (Rho B) solutions and with respect to silicon dioxide and diatomite by Fluorescence Spectroscopy demonstrating a high affinity for the organic dye. The effect of dye trapping property in conveying Rho B emission to frustules, with enhancement of scattering events, was analyzed on Rho B doped polyacrylamide gels filled or not with frustules. Amplified spontaneous emission was recorded at increasing pump power indicating the onset of a random laser effect in frustule filled gels at lower power threshold compared to unfilled matrices.
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19
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Diatom Valve Three-Dimensional Representation: A New Imaging Method Based on Combined Microscopies. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17101645. [PMID: 27690008 PMCID: PMC5085678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17101645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The frustule of diatoms, unicellular microalgae, shows very interesting photonic features, generally related to its complicated and quasi-periodic micro- and nano-structure. In order to simulate light propagation inside and through this natural structure, it is important to develop three-dimensional (3D) models for synthetic replica with high spatial resolution. In this paper, we present a new method that generates images of microscopic diatoms with high definition, by merging scanning electron microscopy and digital holography microscopy or atomic force microscopy data. Starting from two digital images, both acquired separately with standard characterization procedures, a high spatial resolution (Δz = λ/20, Δx = Δy ≅ 100 nm, at least) 3D model of the object has been generated. Then, the two sets of data have been processed by matrix formalism, using an original mathematical algorithm implemented on a commercially available software. The developed methodology could be also of broad interest in the design and fabrication of micro-opto-electro-mechanical systems.
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20
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LeDuff P, Roesijadi G, Rorrer GL. Micro-photoluminescence of single living diatom cells. LUMINESCENCE 2016; 31:1379-1383. [PMID: 26918264 DOI: 10.1002/bio.3118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Diatoms are single-celled microalgae that possess a nanostructured, porous biosilica shell called a frustule. This study characterized the micro-photoluminescence (μ-PL) emission of single living cells of the photosynthetic marine diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana in response to UV laser irradiation at 325 nm using a confocal Raman microscope. The photoluminescence (PL) spectrum had two primary peaks, one centered at 500-510 nm, which was attributed to the frustule biosilica, and a second peak at 680 nm, which was attributed to auto-fluorescence of photosynthetic pigments. The portion of the μ-PL emission spectrum associated with biosilica frustule in the single living diatom cell was similar to that from single biosilica frustules isolated from these diatom cells. The PL emission by the biosilica frustule in the living cell emerged only after cells were cultivated to silicon depletion. The discovery of the discovery of PL emission by the frustule biosilica within a single living diatom itself, not just its isolated frustule, opens up future possibilities for living biosensor applications, where the interaction of diatom cells with other molecules can be probed by μ-PL spectroscopy. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul LeDuff
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Guritno Roesijadi
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Gregory L Rorrer
- School of Chemical, Biological, and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
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21
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Gautam S, Kashyap M, Gupta S, Kumar V, Schoefs B, Gordon R, Jeffryes C, Joshi KB, Vinayak V. Metabolic engineering of TiO2 nanoparticles in Nitzschia palea to form diatom nanotubes: an ingredient for solar cells to produce electricity and biofuel. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra18487a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Diatoms are nature's nanobot because they can be described as cells in a glass house.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shristy Gautam
- Diatom DBT Research Lab
- School of Applied Sciences
- Dr H.S. Gour Central University
- Sagar
- India
| | - Mrinal Kashyap
- Diatom DBT Research Lab
- School of Applied Sciences
- Dr H.S. Gour Central University
- Sagar
- India
| | - Shradhey Gupta
- Department of Chemistry
- Dr H.S. Gour Central University
- Sagar
- India
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Department of Chemistry
- Dr H.S. Gour Central University
- Sagar
- India
| | - Benoit Schoefs
- MicroMar
- Mer Molécules Santé
- IUML—FR 3473 CNRS
- University of Le Mans
- Faculté des Sciences et Techniques
| | - Richard Gordon
- Gulf Specimen Aquarium & Marine Laboratory
- Panacea
- USA
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology
| | - Clayton Jeffryes
- Dan F. Smith Department of Chemical Engineering
- Lamar University
- Beaumont
- USA
| | | | - Vandana Vinayak
- Diatom DBT Research Lab
- School of Applied Sciences
- Dr H.S. Gour Central University
- Sagar
- India
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22
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Di Caprio G, Ferrara MA, Miccio L, Merola F, Memmolo P, Ferraro P, Coppola G. Holographic imaging of unlabelled sperm cells for semen analysis: a review. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2015; 8:779-789. [PMID: 25491593 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201400093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Male reproductive health in both humans and animals is an important research field in biological study. In order to characterize the morphology, the motility and the concentration of the sperm cells, which are the most important parameters to feature them, digital holography demonstrated to be an attractive technique. Indeed, it is a label-free, non-invasive and high-resolution method that enables the characterization of live specimen. The review is intended both for summarizing the state-of-art on the semen analysis and recent achievement obtained by means of digital holography and for exploring new possible applications of digital holography in this field. Quantitative phase maps of living swimming spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Di Caprio
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy.
- Rowland Institute at Harvard, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
| | - Maria Antonietta Ferrara
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy
| | - Lisa Miccio
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Francesco Merola
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Pasquale Memmolo
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Pietro Ferraro
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy
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23
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Numerical and experimental investigation of light trapping effect of nanostructured diatom frustules. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11977. [PMID: 26155924 PMCID: PMC4496668 DOI: 10.1038/srep11977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in nanophotonic light-trapping technologies offer promising solutions in developing high-efficiency thin-film solar cells. However, the cost-effective scalable manufacturing of those rationally designed nanophotonic structures remains a critical challenge. In contrast, diatoms, the most common type of phytoplankton found in nature, may offer a very attractive solution. Diatoms exhibit high solar energy harvesting efficiency due to their frustules (i.e., hard porous cell wall made of silica) possessing remarkable hierarchical micro-/nano-scaled features optimized for the photosynthetic process through millions of years of evolution. Here we report numerical and experimental studies to investigate the light-trapping characteristic of diatom frustule. Rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) and finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) methods are employed to investigate the light-trapping characteristics of the diatom frustules. In simulation, placing the diatom frustules on the surface of the light-absorption materials is found to strongly enhance the optical absorption over the visible spectrum. The absorption spectra are also measured experimentally and the results are in good agreement with numerical simulations.
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24
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Maibohm C, Friis SMM, Ellegaard M, Rottwitt K. Interference patterns and extinction ratio of the diatom Coscinodiscus granii. OPTICS EXPRESS 2015; 23:9543-9548. [PMID: 25968782 DOI: 10.1364/oe.23.009543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We report experimental and theoretical verification of the nature and position of multiple interference points of visible light transmitted through the valve of the centric diatom species Coscinodiscus granii. Furthermore, by coupling the transmitted light into an optical fiber and moving the diatom valve between constructive and destructive interference points, an extinction ratio of 20 dB is shown.
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25
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De Tommasi E, De Luca AC, Lavanga L, Dardano P, De Stefano M, De Stefano L, Langella C, Rendina I, Dholakia K, Mazilu M. Biologically enabled sub-diffractive focusing. OPTICS EXPRESS 2014; 22:27214-27. [PMID: 25401872 DOI: 10.1364/oe.22.027214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Evolution shows that photonic structures are a constituent part of many animals and flora. These elements produce structural color and are useful in predator-prey interactions between animals and in the exploitation of light for photosynthetic organisms. In particular, diatoms have evolved patterned hydrated silica external valves able to confine light with extraordinary efficiency. Their evolution was probably guided by the necessity to survive in harsh conditions of sunlight deprivation. Here, we exploit such diatom valves, in conjunction with structured illumination, to realize a biological super-resolving lens to achieve sub-diffractive focusing in the far field. More precisely, we consider a single diatom valve of Arachnoidiscus genus which shows symmetries and fine features. By characterizing and using the transmission properties of this valve using the optical eigenmode technique, we are able to confine light to a tiny spot with unprecedented precision in terms of resolution limit ratio, corresponding in this case to 0.21λ/NA.
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26
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Chao JT, Biggs MJP, Pandit AS. Diatoms: a biotemplating approach to fabricating drug delivery reservoirs. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:1687-95. [PMID: 25146231 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.935336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Biotemplating is a rapidly expanding subfield that utilizes nature-inspired systems and structures to create novel functional materials, and it is through these methods that the limitations of current engineering practices may be advanced. The diatom is an exceptional template for drug delivery applications, owing largely to its highly-ordered pores, large surface area, species-specific architecture, and flexibility for surface modifications. Diatoms have been studied in a wide range of biomedical applications and their potential as the next frontier of drug delivery has yet to be fully exploited. In this editorial, the authors aim to review the use of diatoms in the delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs as reported in the literature, discuss the progress and advancements that have been made thus far, identify the shortcomings and limitations in the field, and, lastly, present their expert opinion and convey the future outlook on biotemplating approaches for drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua T Chao
- Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials (NFB), National University of Ireland , Biosciences Building, Corrib Village, Dangan, Galway , Ireland +353 91 49 5833 ; +353 91 49 5585 ;
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27
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Ferrara MA, Dardano P, De Stefano L, Rea I, Coppola G, Rendina I, Congestri R, Antonucci A, De Stefano M, De Tommasi E. Optical properties of diatom nanostructured biosilica in Arachnoidiscus sp: micro-optics from mother nature. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103750. [PMID: 25076045 PMCID: PMC4116236 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Some natural structures show three-dimensional morphologies on the micro- and nano- scale, characterized by levels of symmetry and complexity well far beyond those fabricated by best technologies available. This is the case of diatoms, unicellular microalgae, whose protoplasm is enclosed in a nanoporous microshell, made of hydrogenated amorphous silica, called frustule. We have studied the optical properties of Arachnoidiscus sp. single valves both in visible and ultraviolet range. We found photonic effects due to diffraction by ordered pattern of pores and slits, accordingly to an elaborated theoretical model. For the first time, we experimentally revealed spatial separation of focused light in different spots, which could be the basis of a micro-bio-spectrometer. Characterization of such intricate structures can be of great inspiration for photonic devices of next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Ferrara
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Principia Dardano
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca De Stefano
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilaria Rea
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Ivo Rendina
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Congestri
- Laboratory of Biology of Algae, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Antonucci
- Department of Environmental, biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Mario De Stefano
- Department of Environmental, biological, and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Tommasi
- Institute for Microelectronic and Microsystems, Department of Naples, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
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28
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Chandrasekaran S, Sweetman MJ, Kant K, Skinner W, Losic D, Nann T, Voelcker NH. Silicon diatom frustules as nanostructured photoelectrodes. Chem Commun (Camb) 2014; 50:10441-4. [DOI: 10.1039/c4cc04470c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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29
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Kieu K, Li C, Fang Y, Cohoon G, Herrera OD, Hildebrand M, Sandhage KH, Norwood RA. Structure-based optical filtering by the silica microshell of the centric marine diatom Coscinodiscus wailesii. OPTICS EXPRESS 2014; 22:15992-15999. [PMID: 24977855 DOI: 10.1364/oe.22.015992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Diatoms are a renewable (biologically reproducible) source of three-dimensional (3-D) nanostructured silica that could be attractive for a variety of photonic devices, owing to the wide range of quasi-periodic patterns of nano-to-microscale pores available on the silica microshells (frustules) of various diatom species. We have investigated the optical behavior of the silica frustule of a centric marine diatom, Coscinodiscus wailesii, using a coherent broadband (400-1700 nm) supercontinuum laser focused to a fine (20 µm diameter) spot. The C. wailesii frustule valve, which possessed a quasi-periodic hexagonal pore array, exhibited position-dependent optical diffraction. Changes in such diffraction behavior across the frustule were consistent with observed variations in the quasi-periodic pore pattern.
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30
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Di Caprio G, El Mallahi A, Ferraro P, Dale R, Coppola G, Dale B, Coppola G, Dubois F. 4D tracking of clinical seminal samples for quantitative characterization of motility parameters. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2014; 5:690-700. [PMID: 24688806 PMCID: PMC3959837 DOI: 10.1364/boe.5.000690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
In this paper we investigate the use of a digital holographic microscope, with partial spatial coherent illumination, for the automated detection and tracking of spermatozoa. This in vitro technique for the analysis of quantitative parameters is useful for assessment of semen quality. In fact, thanks to the capabilities of digital holography, the developed algorithm allows us to resolve in-focus amplitude and phase maps of the cells under study, independently of focal plane of the sample image. We have characterized cell motility on clinical samples of seminal fluid. In particular, anomalous sperm cells were characterized and the quantitative motility parameters were compared to those of normal sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Di Caprio
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples 80121, Italy
- Currently at the Rowland Institute at Harvard, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Ahmed El Mallahi
- Microgravity Research Centre, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
| | - Pietro Ferraro
- National Institute of Optics, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Pozzuoli 80078, Italy
| | - Roberta Dale
- Center for Assisted Fertilization - CFA, Naples 80123, Italy
| | | | - Brian Dale
- Center for Assisted Fertilization - CFA, Naples 80123, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples 80121, Italy
| | - Frank Dubois
- Microgravity Research Centre, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, 1050, Belgium
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31
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Lamastra FR, De Angelis R, Antonucci A, Salvatori D, Prosposito P, Casalboni M, Congestri R, Melino S, Nanni F. Polymer composite random lasers based on diatom frustules as scatterers. RSC Adv 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4ra12519c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Diatom frustules exhibiting unique micro- and nano-porous architectures (a) were used for the first time as scatterers in random lasers. An incoherent random lasing effect was observed (b).
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Lamastra
- Italian Interuniversity Consortium on Materials Science and Technology (INSTM)
- Research Unit Roma Tor Vergata
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta De Angelis
- Italian Interuniversity Consortium on Materials Science and Technology (INSTM)
- Research Unit Roma Tor Vergata
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Industrial Engineering
- University of Rome 'Tor Vergata'
| | - Alessandra Antonucci
- Department of Environmental
- Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies – Second University of Naples
- 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
- Department of Biology
- University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’
| | - Damiano Salvatori
- Department of Industrial Engineering
- University of Rome 'Tor Vergata'
- Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Prosposito
- Italian Interuniversity Consortium on Materials Science and Technology (INSTM)
- Research Unit Roma Tor Vergata
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Industrial Engineering
- University of Rome 'Tor Vergata'
| | - Mauro Casalboni
- Italian Interuniversity Consortium on Materials Science and Technology (INSTM)
- Research Unit Roma Tor Vergata
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Industrial Engineering
- University of Rome 'Tor Vergata'
| | - Roberta Congestri
- Department of Biology
- University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Melino
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies
- University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Nanni
- Italian Interuniversity Consortium on Materials Science and Technology (INSTM)
- Research Unit Roma Tor Vergata
- 1-00133 Rome, Italy
- Department of Enterprise Engineering
- University of Rome Tor Vergata
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