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Chen H, Zou L, Hossain E, Li Y, Liu S, Pu Y, Mao X. Functional structures assembled based on Au clusters with practical applications. Biomater Sci 2024; 12:4283-4300. [PMID: 39028030 DOI: 10.1039/d4bm00455h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The advancement of gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) has given rise to a new era in fabricating functional materials due to their controllable morphology, stable optical properties, and excellent biocompatibility. Assemblies based on Au NCs demonstrate significant potentiality in constructing multiple structures as acceptable agents in applications such as sensing, imaging technology, and drug delivery systems. In addition, the assembled strategies illustrate the integration mechanism between each component while facing material requirement. It is necessary to provide supplementary and comprehensive reviews on the assembled functional structures (based Au NCs), which hold promise for applications and could expand their functional range and potential applications. This review focuses on the assembled structures of Au NCs in combination with metals, metal oxides, and non-metal materials, which are intricately arranged through various interaction forces including covalent bonds and metal coordination, resulting in a diverse array of multifunctional Au NC assemblies. These assemblies have widespread applications in fields such as biological imaging, drug delivery, and optical devices. The review concludes by highlighting the challenges and future prospects of Au NC assemblies, emphasizing the importance of continued research to advance nanomaterial assembly innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Ligang Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Ekram Hossain
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Yixin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Shaojun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Yaoyang Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, P. R. China
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2
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Cong Y, Liu J, Zhang J, Wang J, Wang X, Li L. Photofunctional Gold Nanocluster Composites for Bioapplications. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:2695-2703. [PMID: 38701372 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.4c00376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs), with customized structures and diverse optical properties, are promising optical materials. Constructing composite systems by the assembly and incorporation of AuNCs can utilize their optical properties to achieve diagnostic and therapeutic applications in the biological field. Therefore, the exploration of the assembly behaviors of AuNCs and the enhancement of their performance has attracted widespread interest. In this review, we introduce multiple interactions and assembly modes that are prevalent in nanocomposites and microcomposites based on AuNCs. Then, the functions of AuNC composites for bioapplications are demonstrated in detail. These composite systems have inherited and enhanced the inherent optical performances of the AuNCs to meet diverse requirements for biological sensing and optical treatments. Finally, we discuss the prospects of AuNC composites and highlight the challenges and opportunities in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Cong
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaren Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingkai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, People's Republic of China
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3
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Wang J, Li P, Wang C, Liu N, Xing D. Molecularly or atomically precise nanostructures for bio-applications: how far have we come? MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:3304-3324. [PMID: 37365977 DOI: 10.1039/d3mh00574g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
A huge variety of nanostructures are promising for biomedical applications, but only a few have been practically applied. Among the various reasons, the limited structural preciseness is a critical one, as it increases the difficulty in product quality control, accurate dosing, and ensuring the repeatability of material performance. Constructing nanoparticles with molecule-like preciseness is becoming a new research field. In this review, we focus on the artificial nanomaterials that can currently be molecularly or atomically precise, including DNA nanostructures, some metallic nanoclusters, dendrimer nanoparticles and carbon nanostructures, describing their syntheses, bio-applications and limitations, in view of up-to-date studies. A perspective on their potential for clinical translation is also given. This review is expected to provide a particular rationale for the future design of nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Ping Li
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences and Engineering, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Chao Wang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Ning Liu
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Dongming Xing
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
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4
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Kang Y, Zhang Y, Li X, Wang X, Zhang J, Li L. Protein-Assisted Molybdenum Disulfide as Biomimetic Nanozyme for Antibacterial Application. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023. [PMID: 37317061 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Molybdenum-based nanomaterials with variable oxidation states can be developed as nanozyme catalysts. In this work, we developed a one-pot method for the preparation of molybdenum disulfide assisted by protein. Protamine was used as a cationic template to link molybdate anions and form complexes. During hydrothermal synthesis, protamine can affect the nucleation process of molybdenum disulfide and inhibit their aggregation, which facilitates the fabrication of small-sized molybdenum disulfide nanoparticles. Moreover, the abundant amino/guanidyl groups of protamine could both physically adsorb and chemically bond to molybdenum disulfide and further modulate the crystal structures. The optimized size and crystalline structure enabled a higher exposure of active sites, which enhanced the peroxidase-like activity of molybdenum disulfide/protamine nanocomposites. Meanwhile, the antibacterial activity of protamine was retained in the molybdenum disulfide/protamine nanocomposites, which could synergize with the peroxidase-like activity of molybdenum disulfide to kill bacteria. Therefore, the molybdenum disulfide/protamine nanocomposites are good candidates for antibacterial agents with lower chances of antimicrobial resistance. This study establishes an easy way to design artificial nanozymes by compounding suitable components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuetong Kang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Yun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xinrui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Jingqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
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5
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Chen M, Ning Z, Ge X, Yang E, Sun Q, Yin F, Zhang M, Zhang Y, Shen Y. Ligands engineering of gold nanoclusters with enhanced photoluminescence for deceptive information encryption and glutathione detection. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 219:114805. [PMID: 36279824 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) have appeared as an essential alternative to traditional quantum dots and fluorescent molecules for the development of intelligent stimuli-responsive photoluminescence (PL), but the low PL emission of Au NCs restricts their broad applications. Herein, we reported a simple yet effective strategy for preparing Au NCs with high PL by ligands engineering of 4-hydroxy-2-mercapto-6-methylpyrimidine (MTU) and L-Arginine (Arg). Owing to the rigidified shell and the ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) effects, it was found that the assembly of Arg ligand on MTU-protected Au NCs (Arg/MTU-Au NCs) led to a significantly enhanced PL in the alkaline solution up to 30 times. Moreover, utilizing the tunable LMCT, the Arg/MTU-Au NCs displayed rapid responses to multi-type ionic interaction in a reversible manner, such as H+/OH- and Cu2+/glutathione (GSH) pairs. Inspired by these intriguing ions-responsive LMCT and the associated switchable PL emission, the Arg/MTU-Au NCs were successfully used as excellent stimuli-responsive PL probes for intriguing deceptive information encryption and biosensing as well. This work would provide new insight into regulating the PL emission of Au NCs by ligands engineering and advance their potential applications in information encryption and bioassay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Chen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Zhenqiang Ning
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xue Ge
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Erli Yang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qian Sun
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Fei Yin
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yuanjian Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yanfei Shen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Center of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China; Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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6
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Mahmood Khan I, Niazi S, Akhtar W, Yue L, Pasha I, Khan MKI, Mohsin A, Waheed Iqbal M, Zhang Y, Wang Z. Surface functionalized AuNCs optical biosensor as an emerging food safety indicator: Fundamental mechanism to future prospects. Coord Chem Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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7
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Abstract
Gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) have become a promising material for bioimaging detection because of their tunable photoluminescence, large Stokes shift, low photobleaching, and good biocompatibility. Last decade, great efforts have been made to develop AuNCs for enhanced imaging contrast and multimodal imaging. Herein, an updated overview of recent advances in AuNCs was present for visible fluorescence (FL) imaging, near-infrared fluorescence (NIR-FL) imaging, two-photon near-infrared fluorescence (TP-NIR-FL) imaging, computed tomography (CT) imaging, positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and photoacoustic (PA) imaging. The justification of AuNCs applied in bioimaging mentioned above applications was discussed, the performance location of different AuNCs were summarized and highlighted in an unified parameter coordinate system of corresponding bioimaging, and the current challenges, research frontiers, and prospects of AuNCs in bioimaging were discussed. This review will bring new insights into the future development of AuNCs in bio-diagnostic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xiaobing Gao
- General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Wenrui Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Meng He
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yao Yu
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Guanbin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
- Corresponding author
| | - Taolei Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Technology for Materials Synthesis and Processing, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
- School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China
- Corresponding author
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8
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Wu Q, Peng R, Gong F, Luo Y, Zhang H, Cui Q. Aqueous synthesis of N-heterocyclic carbene-protected gold nanoclusters with intrinsic antibacterial activity. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2022.128934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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9
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Imidazole-stabilized gold nanoclusters with thiol depletion capacity for antibacterial application. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2022.128608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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10
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Cong Y, Wang X, Yao C, Kang Y, Zhang P, Li L. Controlling the Interaction between Fluorescent Gold Nanoclusters and Biointerfaces for Rapid Discrimination of Fungal Pathogens. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:4532-4541. [PMID: 35029963 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c22045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nondestructive detection and discrimination of fungal pathogens is essential for rapid and precise treatment, which further effectively prevents antifungal resistance from overused drugs. In this work, fluorescent gold nanoclusters served as the basis for discriminating Candida species. Varied on surface ligands, these gold nanoclusters demonstrated different optical properties as a result of the perturbation effects of ligands. The biointerface interaction between the surface ligands of gold nanoclusters and the cell walls of Candida species can be constructed, and their restriction on ligands perturbation effect produced enhanced fluorescence signals. Owing to the variation of the cell wall composition, cells of different Candida species demonstrated different degrees of association with the gold nanoclusters, leading to discriminable amounts of fluorescence enhancements. The reverse signal response from these gold nanoclusters gives rise to a synergistic and effective assay that allows identification of Candida species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Cong
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Chuang Yao
- Key Laboratory of Extraordinary Bond Engineering and Advanced Materials Technology (EBEAM) Chongqing, Yangtze Normal University, Chongqing 408100, P.R. China
| | - Yuetong Kang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Pengbo Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science &Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P.R. China
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11
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Li Y, Zhai T, Chen J, Shi J, Wang L, Shen J, Liu X. Water-Dispersible Gold Nanoclusters: Synthesis Strategies, Optical Properties, and Biological Applications. Chemistry 2021; 28:e202103736. [PMID: 34854510 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202103736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Atomically precise gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) are an emerging class of quantum-sized nanomaterials. Intrinsic discrete electronic energy levels have endowed them with fascinating electronic and optical properties. They have been widely applied in the fields of optoelectronics, photovoltaics, catalysis, biochemical sensing, bio-imaging, and therapeutics. Nevertheless, most AuNCs are synthesized in organic solvents and do not disperse in aqueous solutions; this restricts their biological applications. In this review, we focus on the recent progress in the preparation of water-dispersible AuNCs and their biological applications. We first review different methods of synthesis, including direct synthesis from hydrophilic templates and indirect phase transfer of hydrophobic AuNCs. We then discuss their photophysical properties, such as emission enhancement and fluorescence lifetimes. Next, we summarize their latest applications in the fields of biosensing, biolabeling, and bioimaging. Finally, we outline the challenges and potential for the future development of these AuNCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Zhai
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Jing Chen
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, P. R. China.,Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China
| | - Jiye Shi
- Division of Physical Biology, CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, P. R. China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Zhangjiang Laboratory, Shanghai Advanced Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201210, P. R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical ProcessesSchool of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China
| | - Jianlei Shen
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoguo Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
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12
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Chai OJH, Wu Z, Xie J. All Hydroxyl-Thiol-Protected Gold Nanoclusters with Near-Neutral Surface Charge. J Phys Chem Lett 2021; 12:9882-9887. [PMID: 34609875 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.1c02989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Hydrophilic gold nanoclusters (Au NCs) whose physical and chemical properties are not susceptible to large changes in pH are greatly desired for diverse applications. Here, we design Au NCs protected by a hydroxyl-thiol ligand (e.g., 1-thioglycerol (TG)) with a molecular formula of Au34(TG)22 as a proof-of-concept for a Au NC model with near-neutral surface charge. Unlike hydrophilic thiols with charged functional groups (e.g., carboxylate-thiol) that are usually used for hydrophilic Au NCs, this type of Au NCs is protected by hydroxyl-thiols, which are less susceptible to the prevailing pH conditions as the hydroxyl group is less acidic than water. More interestingly, the resulting Au NCs also possess pH-independent fluorescence intensity, making them suitable for applications under strong acidic conditions, which are currently not available in the reported hydrophilic Au NCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osburg J H Chai
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117585, Singapore
| | - Zhennan Wu
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117585, Singapore
| | - Jianping Xie
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117585, Singapore
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13
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Kundu S, Ghosh M, Sarkar N. State of the Art and Perspectives on the Biofunctionalization of Fluorescent Metal Nanoclusters and Carbon Quantum Dots for Targeted Imaging and Drug Delivery. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2021; 37:9281-9301. [PMID: 34297580 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c00732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The interface of nanobio science and cancer nanomedicine is one of the most important current frontiers in research, being full of opportunities and challenges. Ultrasmall fluorescent metal nanoclusters (MNCs) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as promising fluorescent nanomaterials due to their unique physicochemical and optical properties, facile surface functionalization, good photostability, biocompatibility, and aqueous dispersity. These characteristics make them advantageous over conventional fluorophores such as organic dye molecules and semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) for the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of various diseases including cancer. Recently, researchers have focused on the biofunctionalization strategy of the MNCs and CQDs which can tailor their physicochemical and biological properties and, in turn, can empower these biofunctionalized nanoprobes for diverse applications including imaging, drug delivery, theranostics, and other biomedical applications. In this invited feature article, we first discuss some fundamental structural and physicochemical characteristics of the fluorescent biocompatible quantum-sized nanomaterials which have some outstanding features for the development of multiplexed imaging probes, delivery vehicles, and cancer nanomedicine. We then demonstrate the diverse surface engineering of these fluorescent nanomaterials with reactive target specific functional groups which can help to construct multifunctional nanoprobes with improved targeting capabilities having minimal toxicity. The promising future of the biofunctionalized fluorescent quantum-sized nanomaterials in the field of bioanalytical and biomedical research is elaborately demonstrated, showing selected recent works with relevant applications. This invited feature article finally ends with a short discussion of the current challenges and future prospects of the development of these bioconjugated/biofunctionalized nanomaterials to provide insight into this burgeoning field of MNC- and CQD-based diagnostics and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangita Kundu
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur 721302, WB India
| | - Meghna Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur 721302, WB India
| | - Nilmoni Sarkar
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur 721302, WB India
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14
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Zhu S, Wang X, Cong Y, Liu L, Li L. Free Radical Polymerization of Gold Nanoclusters and Hydrogels for Cell Capture and Light-Controlled Release. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:19360-19368. [PMID: 33876923 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c03587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Gold nanocluster (AuNC) decorated hydrogels have attracted considerable attention as versatile biomaterials. To date AuNCs and hydrogels have mainly been mixed as independent components. Here, we report the use of AuNCs as reactive monomers in the polymerization of hydrogels. We used a free radical polymerization to copolymerize AuNCs with acrylamide and N-acryloyl glycinamide to prepare stimuli-responsive smart hydrogels. Multiple C═C bonds were decorated on the surface of the AuNCs as active sites for polymerization. These C═C bonds not only protected the structure of the AuNCs from oxidation by free radicals during polymerization but also covalently connected the AuNCs with the polymer chains. This structure ensured good photothermal performance of the AuNCs while preserving the thermoresponsive hydrogen bonds of polymers. Moreover, the copolymerized AuNCs acted as cross-linkers, which improved the mechanical properties of the hydrogels. These smart hydrogels had good stability, efficient photothermal conversion, and a sensitive thermoresponsive. We examined their potential for capture of MDA-MB-231 cells with hyaluronic acid as target molecules. The captured cells were released under 660 nm irradiation. This process of targeted capture and light-controlled remote release could be repeatedly applied. These results suggest that systems based on AuNCs copolymerized with hydrogels have great potential for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Cong
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
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15
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Gong L, Zhao L, Tan M, Pan T, He H, Wang Y, He X, Li W, Tang L, Nie L. Two-Photon Fluorescent Nanomaterials and Their Applications in Biomedicine. J Biomed Nanotechnol 2021; 17:509-528. [PMID: 35057882 DOI: 10.1166/jbn.2021.3052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, two-photon excited (TPE) materials have attracted great attentions because of their excellent advantages over conventional one-photon excited (OPE) materials, such as deep tissue penetration, three-dimensional spatial selectivity and low phototoxicity. Also, they have
been widely applied in lots of field, such as biosensing, imaging, photo-catalysis, photoelectric conversion, and therapy. In this article, we review recent advances in vibrant topic of two-photon fluorescent nanomaterials, including organic molecules, quantum dots (QDs), carbon dots (CDs)
and metal nanoclus-ters (MNCs). The optical properties, synthetic methods and important applications of TPE nanomaterials in biomedical field, such as biosensing, imaging and therapy are introduced. Also, the probable challenges and perspectives in the forthcoming development of two-photon
fluorescent nanomaterials are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Gong
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Lan Zhao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Miduo Tan
- Zhuzhou Central Hospital, Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Ting Pan
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Huai He
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Yulin Wang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Xuliang He
- Zhuzhou People’s Hospital, Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Wenjun Li
- Zhuzhou People’s Hospital, Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Li Tang
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
| | - Libo Nie
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology Zhuzhou 412007, P. R. China
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Cong Y, Wang X, Zhu S, Liu L, Li L. Spiropyran-Functionalized Gold Nanoclusters with Photochromic Ability for Light-Controlled Fluorescence Bioimaging. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:2790-2797. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Cong
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Shuxian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
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Liu L, Wang X, Zhu S, Li L. Different Surface Interactions between Fluorescent Conjugated Polymers and Biological Targets. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:1211-1220. [PMID: 35014474 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c01567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent conjugated polymers (CPs) have attracted considerable interest in biosensing owing to their high fluorescence, tunable bandgap, and good biocompatibility. Aiming at acquiring the desired optical responses of CPs for bioapplications, it is essential that the CPs bind to biological targets with high efficacy and affinity. However, the efficient binding of CPs is largely driven by their effective interaction with target surfaces. In this Review, we will focus on the different surface interactions that pervade between CPs and biological targets. The multiple surface interactions can lead to changes in spatial conformation and distribution of CPs, which manifest alterable optical properties of CPs based on accumulation of target-directed CPs, Förster resonance energy transfer mechanism, and metal-enhanced fluorescence mechanism. Then, we display diverse bioapplications applying CPs-based surface interactions, such as cell imaging, imaging-guided detection, and photodynamic therapy. Finally, the challenges and future developments to control the efficient attachment of CPs to biological targets are discussed. We expect that the understanding of surface interactions between CPs and biological targets benefits the CPs-based system design and expands their applications in biological detections and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Shuxian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
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Zhu S, Wang X, Cong Y, Li L. Regulating the Optical Properties of Gold Nanoclusters for Biological Applications. ACS OMEGA 2020; 5:22702-22707. [PMID: 32954117 PMCID: PMC7495455 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.0c03218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Gold nanoclusters are promising optically functional materials because of their attractive optical properties, such as luminescence, two-photon absorption, photothermal conversion, and photodynamics. Regulating the optical functions of gold nanoclusters and improving their performance have attracted wide interest in biological applications. In this Review, we introduce the principles to manipulate both the intrinsic optical properties and the apparent optical performance of gold nanoclusters. Manipulating the surface ligands and compounding with other nanomaterials are facile and efficient strategies. Based on the regulated optical properties, the gold nanoclusters can be well applied in various biomedical applications from multimodal bioimaging toward theranostics. By correlating structures and optical properties, we expect a better utilization of the optical gold nanoclusters in the biological field.
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Zhu S, Wang X, Liu L, Li L. Gold nanocluster grafted conjugated polymer nanoparticles for cancer cell imaging and photothermal killing. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2020.124764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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21
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Zhu S, Wang X, Li S, Liu L, Li L. Near-Infrared-Light-Assisted in Situ Reduction of Antimicrobial Peptide-Protected Gold Nanoclusters for Stepwise Killing of Bacteria and Cancer Cells. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:11063-11071. [PMID: 32027113 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c00310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Biomolecule-protected gold nanostructures show good performance in biomedical applications. However, precise control over gold nanocluster (AuNC) preparation with biomolecules remains challenging. Here, we develop a simple near-infrared (NIR)-light-assisted method for in situ reduction of antimicrobial peptide (AMP)-protected AuNCs. Take advantage of the high photothermal conversion efficiency of the conjugated polymer (CP) upon NIR light irradiation, we promote the rapid reduction of AuNCs by the AMP on the surface of the CP. The fluorescent properties of the AuNCs were improved owing to the formation of a unique Au(0)NC@Au(I)AMP core-shell nanostructure. This nanostructure is attributed to the rapid reduction of Au(0) and collision and fusion of Au(0) at high temperatures. Integrating antibacterial AMPs, fluorescent AuNCs, and photothermal CPs, the composites facilitated different killing mechanisms for both bacteria and cancer cells. This material system provides an all-in-one strategy for the stepwise killing of cancer cells and bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Shengliang Li
- Center of Super-Diamond and Advanced Films, Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, P. R. China
| | - Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
| | - Lidong Li
- State Key Laboratory for Advanced Metals and Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, P. R. China
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Feng B, Xing Y, Lan J, Su Z, Wang F. Synthesis of MUC1 aptamer-stabilized gold nanoclusters for cell-specific imaging. Talanta 2020; 212:120796. [PMID: 32113558 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.120796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Targeted imaging of cancer cells is crucial for early diagnosis. Mucin is a transmembrane protein that is overexpressed by cancer cells and is considered a cancer target. Specific recognition of mucin by aptamers has been receiving increasing attention in recent years. In this study, we use DNA MUC1 aptamer as a protective agent and target molecule in the synthesis of ultra-small fluorescent gold nanoclusters (MUC1-AuNCs) via a simple one-step method. MUC1-AuNCs exhibited red fluorescence emission with excellent stability over a wide pH range and under strong illumination. Confocal images showed that the synthesized MUC1-AuNCs efficiently targeted mucin overexpressing 4T1 cancer cells, but were not observed in 293T normal cells. Furthermore, the MUC1-AuNCs had a 5667 ns lifetime and 235 nm Stokes shifts and markedly eliminated background interference, suggesting they are a promising fluorescent probe for cell-targeted labeling and imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Feng
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China
| | - Yanan Xing
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jinze Lan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Zhi Su
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China.
| | - Fu Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi, Xinjiang, 830054, China; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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Cowan MJ, Mpourmpakis G. Towards elucidating structure of ligand-protected nanoclusters. Dalton Trans 2020; 49:9191-9202. [DOI: 10.1039/d0dt01418d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Developing a centralized database for ligand-protected nanoclusters can fuel machine learning and data-science-based approaches towards theoretical structure prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Cowan
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
- University of Pittsburgh
- Pittsburgh
- USA
| | - Giannis Mpourmpakis
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
- University of Pittsburgh
- Pittsburgh
- USA
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