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Mondo GB, Cathcarth M, Longo GS, Picco AS, Cardoso MB. Short Zwitterionic Sulfobetaine-Modified Silica Nanoparticles: Is Neutrality Possible? LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2024; 40:10856-10867. [PMID: 38683600 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.4c00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Zwitterionic coatings are an efficient strategy for preventing biomolecule adsorption and enhancing nanoparticle stability in solution. The properties of zwitterions and other antifouling materials, including suppression of nonspecific adsorption and improved colloidal stability of nanoparticles, are believed to derive from their electroneutral and highly hydrophilic nature. Among different zwitterions, short sulfobetaines have been demonstrated to be effective in preventing protein adsorption onto several nanoparticles and providing enhanced colloidal stability. Although zwitterionic sulfobetaine silane (ZS) is electrically neutral, the negatively charged zwitterionic sulfobetaine-functionalized silica nanoparticles (ZS@SiO2NPs) exhibit a similar ζ-potential to nonfunctionalized silica nanoparticles (SiO2NPs). In this work, we present a thorough comprehension of the surface properties of ZS@SiO2NPs, which encompasses the development of meticulous functionalization procedures, detailed characterization approaches, and cutting-edge modeling to address the questions that persist regarding the surface features of ZS@SiO2NPs. The negative charge of ZS@SiO2NPs is due to the stabilization of siloxide from residual surface silanols by the quaternary amine in the sulfobetaine structure. Consequently, we infer that zero-charge ZS@SiO2NPs are unlikely to be obtained since this stabilization increases the dissociation degree of surface silanols, increasing the overall structure negative charge. Additionally, colloidal stability was evaluated in different pH and ionic strength conditions, and it was found that ZS@SiO2NPs are more stable at higher ionic strengths. This suggests that the interaction between ZS and salt ions prevents the aggregation of ZS@SiO2NPs. Together, these results shed light on the nature of the ZS@SiO2NP negative charge and possible sources for the remarkable colloidal stability of zwitterionic nanoparticles in complex media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Borba Mondo
- Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), 13083-970 Campinas, Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry (IQ), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6154, 13083-970 Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marilina Cathcarth
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), Faculdad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata - CONICET, Diagonal 113 y 64, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), Faculdad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata - CONICET, Diagonal 113 y 64, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Agustín S Picco
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), Faculdad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata - CONICET, Diagonal 113 y 64, 1900 La Plata, Argentina
| | - Mateus Borba Cardoso
- Brazilian Synchrotron Light Laboratory (LNLS), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), 13083-970 Campinas, Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry (IQ), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6154, 13083-970 Campinas, Brazil
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2
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Pérez-Chávez NA, Albesa AG, Longo GS. Investigating the Impact of Network Functionalization on Protein Adsorption to Polymer Nanogels. J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:371-380. [PMID: 38156604 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c07283] [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: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
This study explores the impact of network functionalization and chemical composition on the pH-responsive behavior of polymer nanogels and their adsorption of proteins. Using a thermodynamic theory informed by a molecular model, this work evaluates the interactions of three proteins with varying isoelectric points (insulin, myoglobin, and cytochrome c) and pH-responsive nanogels based on methacrylic acid or allylamine motifs. Three different functionalization strategies are considered, with pH-responsive segments distributed randomly, at the center, or on the surface of the polymer network. Our results show that the spatial distribution of functional units affects both the nanogels' mechanical response to pH changes and the level and localization of adsorbed proteins. The dependence of protein adsorption on the salt concentration is also investigated, with the conclusion that it is best to encapsulate proteins at low salt concentrations and aim for release at high salt concentrations. These results provide valuable information for the design of pH-responsive nanogels as vehicles for protein encapsulation, transport, and administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Néstor A Pérez-Chávez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, diag. 113 & calle 64, La Plata B1906ZAA, Argentina
| | - Alberto G Albesa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, diag. 113 & calle 64, La Plata B1906ZAA, Argentina
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, diag. 113 & calle 64, La Plata B1906ZAA, Argentina
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3
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Rosú SA, Aguilar J, Urbano BF, Tarraga WA, Ramella NA, Longo GS, Finarelli GS, Sanchez Donoso SA, Tricerri MA. Interactions of variants of human apolipoprotein A-I with biopolymeric model matrices. Effect of collagen and heparin. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023; 750:109805. [PMID: 37913855 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109805] [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] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex tridimensional scaffold that actively participates in physiological and pathological events. The objective of this study was to test whether structural proteins of the ECM and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) may favor the retention of human apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) variants associated with amyloidosis and atherosclerosis. METHODS Biopolymeric matrices containing collagen type I (Col, a main macromolecular component of the ECM) with or without heparin (Hep, a model of GAGs) were constructed and characterized, and used to compare the binding of apoA-I having the native sequence (Wt) or Arg173Pro, a natural variant inducing cardiac amyloidosis. Protein binding was observed by fluorescence microscopy and unbound proteins quantified by a colorimetric assay. RESULTS Both, Wt and Arg173Pro bound to the scaffolds containing Col, but the presence of Hep diminished the binding efficiency. Col-Hep matrices retained Arg173Pro more than the Wt. The retained protein was only partially removed from the matrices with saline solutions, indicating that electrostatic interactions may occur but are not the main driving force. Using in addition thermodynamic molecular simulations and size exclusion chromatography approaches, we suggest that the binding of apoA-I variants to the biopolymeric matrices is driven by many low affinity interactions. CONCLUSIONS Under this scenario Col-Hep scaffolds contribute to the binding of Arg173Pro, as a cooperative platform which could modify the native protein conformation affecting protein folding. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE We show that the composition of the ECM is key to the protein retention, and well characterized biosynthetic matrices offer an invaluable in vitro model to mimic the hallmark of pathologies with interstitial infiltration such as cardiac amyloidosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana A Rosú
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 120, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joao Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Macromoleculares (LIMM), Departamento de Polímeros, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Bruno F Urbano
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Macromoleculares (LIMM), Departamento de Polímeros, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Wilson A Tarraga
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), Universidad Nacional de La Plata-CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nahuel A Ramella
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 120, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), Universidad Nacional de La Plata-CONICET, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriela S Finarelli
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 120, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susana A Sanchez Donoso
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Macromoleculares (LIMM), Departamento de Polímeros, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile.
| | - M Alejandra Tricerri
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata (INIBIOLP), CONICET. Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 60 y 120, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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4
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Muronetz VI, Pozdyshev DV, Semenyuk PI. Polyelectrolytes for Enzyme Immobilization and the Regulation of Their Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:polym14194204. [PMID: 36236151 PMCID: PMC9571273 DOI: 10.3390/polym14194204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we considered aspects related to the application of polyelectrolytes, primarily synthetic polyanions and polycations, to immobilize enzymes and regulate their properties. We mainly focused on the description of works in which polyelectrolytes were used to create complex and unusual systems (self-regulated enzyme-polyelectrolyte complexes, artificial chaperones, polyelectrolyte brushes, layer-by-layer immobilization and others). These works represent the field of "smart polymers", whilst the trivial use of charged polymers as carriers for adsorption or covalent immobilization of proteins is beyond the scope of this short review. In addition, we have included a section on the molecular modeling of interactions between proteins and polyelectrolytes, as modeling the binding of proteins with a strictly defined, and already known, spatial structure, to disordered polymeric molecules has its own unique characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir I. Muronetz
- Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, Bld 40, 119992 Moscow, Russia
- Butlerov Chemical Institute, Kazan Federal University, Kremlevskaya 18, 420008 Kazan, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-(495)939-14-56
| | - Denis V. Pozdyshev
- Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, Bld 40, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Pavel I. Semenyuk
- Belozersky Research Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, Bld 40, 119992 Moscow, Russia
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5
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Cathcarth M, Picco AS, Mondo GB, Cardoso MB, Longo GS. Competitive protein adsorption on charge regulating silica-like surfaces: the role of protonation equilibrium. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2022; 34:364001. [PMID: 35366656 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/ac6388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We develop a molecular thermodynamic theory to study the interaction of some proteins with a charge regulating silica-like surface under a wide range of conditions, including pH, salt concentration and protein concentration. Proteins are modeled using their three dimensional structure from crystallographic data and the average experimental pKa of amino acid residues. As model systems, we study single-protein and binary solutions of cytochrome c, green fluorescent protein, lysozyme and myoglobin. Our results show that protonation equilibrium plays a critical role in the interactions of proteins with these type of surfaces. The terminal hydroxyl groups on the surface display considerable extent of charge regulation; protein residues with titratable side chains increase protonation according to changes in the local environment and the drop in pH near the surface. This behavior defines protein-surface interactions and leads to the emergence of several phenomena: (i) a complex non-ideal surface charge behavior; (ii) a non-monotonic adsorption of proteins as a function of pH; and (iii) the presence of two spatial regions, a protein-rich and a protein-depleted layer, that occur simultaneously at different distances from the surface when pH is slightly above the isoelectric point of the protein. In binary mixtures, protein adsorption and surface-protein interactions cannot be predicted from single-protein solution considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilina Cathcarth
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Agustin S Picco
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Gabriela B Mondo
- Brazilian Synchrotron (LNLS) and Brazilian Nanotechnology Laboratory (LNNano), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry (IQ), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Mateus B Cardoso
- Brazilian Synchrotron (LNLS) and Brazilian Nanotechnology Laboratory (LNNano), Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, Brazil
- Institute of Chemistry (IQ), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina
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6
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Gonzalez Solveyra E, Thompson DH, Szleifer I. Proteins Adsorbing onto Surface-Modified Nanoparticles: Effect of Surface Curvature, pH, and the Interplay of Polymers and Proteins Acid-Base Equilibrium. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:739. [PMID: 35215653 PMCID: PMC8878797 DOI: 10.3390/polym14040739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein adsorption onto nanomaterials is a process of vital significance and it is commonly controlled by functionalizing their surface with polymers. The efficiency of this strategy depends on the design parameters of the nanoconstruct. Although significant amount of work has been carried out on planar surfaces modified with different types of polymers, studies investigating the role of surface curvature are not as abundant. Here, we present a comprehensive and systematic study of the protein adsorption process, analyzing the effect of curvature and morphology, the grafting of polymer mixtures, the type of monomer (neutral, acidic, basic), the proteins in solution, and the conditions of the solution. The theoretical approach we employed is based on a molecular theory that allows to explicitly consider the acid-base reactions of the amino acids in the proteins and the monomers on the surface. The calculations showed that surface curvature modulates the molecular organization in space, but key variables are the bulk pH and salt concentration (in the millimolar range). When grafting the NP with acidic or basic polymers, the surface coating could disfavor or promote adsorption, depending on the solution's conditions. When NPs are in contact with protein mixtures in solution, a nontrivial competitive adsorption process is observed. The calculations reflect the balance between molecular organization and chemical state of polymers and proteins, and how it is modulated by the curvature of the underlying surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefania Gonzalez Solveyra
- Instituto de Nanosistemas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín-CONICET, San Martín, Buenos Aires B1650, Argentina;
| | - David H. Thompson
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Department of Chemistry, Multi-Disciplinary Cancer Research Facility, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
| | - Igal Szleifer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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7
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Agnihotri P, Aery S, Dan A. Temperature- and pH-responsive poly( N-isopropylacrylamide- co-methacrylic acid) microgels as a carrier for controlled protein adsorption and release. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:9595-9606. [PMID: 34633021 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01197a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we report controlled protein adsorption and delivery of thermo- and pH-responsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-methacrylic acid) (PNIPAM-co-MAA) microgels at different temperatures, pH values and ionic strengths by employing bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model protein. For these dual-responsive microgels, we found that the BSA adsorption was driven by several of six competing contributions, viz., physical diffusion (PD), hydrophobic interactions (HI), electrostatic attraction (EA), hydrogen bonding (HB) and temperature or pH-induced seizing action (SAT or SApH), depending on the temperature and pH of the solution. Compared to the pure PNIPAM microgels, the higher swelling degree of the PNIPAM-co-MAA microgels allowed a large amount of BSA loading under any experimental conditions. A largest BSA adsorption of 45.1 μg mg-1 was achieved at 40 °C and pH 4 due to the presence of all six contributions. The BSA adsorption and delivery could be further tuned by changing the crosslinking density within the microgels. The BSA binding onto the microgels was found to be ionic strength dependent, which could be attributed to the charge shielding of Na+ ions, salting out of BSA and aggregate formation of the microgels. The adsorbed BSA could be controllably released by adjusting the temperature and pH of the experiment, and with the help of sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) addition so as to eliminate each interaction between BSA and the microgels. Thus, this study can be useful to design a stimuli-responsive microgel-based carrier for controlled release of proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanshi Agnihotri
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University - Chandigarh, Sector 14, Chandigarh 160014, India.
| | - Shikha Aery
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University - Chandigarh, Sector 14, Chandigarh 160014, India.
| | - Abhijit Dan
- Department of Chemistry and Centre for Advanced Studies in Chemistry, Panjab University - Chandigarh, Sector 14, Chandigarh 160014, India.
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8
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Yildirimkaraman O, Özenler S, Gunay US, Durmaz H, Yıldız ÜH. Electroactive Nanogel Formation by Reactive Layer-by-Layer Assembly of Polyester and Branched Polyethylenimine via Aza-Michael Addition. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2021; 37:10902-10913. [PMID: 34477388 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.1c01070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We here demonstrate the utilization of reactive layer-by-layer (rLBL) assembly to form a nanogel coating made of branched polyethylenimine (BPEI) and alkyne containing polyester (PE) on a gold surface. The rLBL is generated by the rapid aza-Michael addition reaction of the alkyne group of PE and the -NH2 groups of BPEI by yielding a homogeneous gel coating on the gold substrate. The thickness profile of the nanogel revealed that a 400 nm thick coating is formed by six multilayers of rLBL, and it exhibits 50 nm roughness over 8 μm distance. The LBL characteristics were determined via depth profiling analysis by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and it has been shown that a 70-100 nm periodic increase in gel thickness is a consequence of consecutive cycles of rLBL. A detailed XPS analysis was performed to determine the yield of the rLBL reaction: the average yield was deduced as 86.4% by the ratio of the binding energies at 286.26 eV, (C═CN-C bond) and 283.33 eV, (C≡C triple bond). The electrochemical characterization of the nanogels ascertains that up to the six-multilayered rLBL of BPEI-PE is electroactive, and the nanogel permeability had led to drive mass and charge transfer effectively. These results promise that nanogel formation by rLBL films may be a straightforward modification of electrodes approach, and it exhibits potential for the application of soft biointerfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sezer Özenler
- Department of Chemistry, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, 35430, Turkey
- Department of Chemistry and Pharmacy & Interdisciplinary Center for Molecular Materials, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Egerlandstraße 3, Erlangen, D-91058, Germany
| | - Ufuk Saim Gunay
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey
| | - Hakan Durmaz
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, Istanbul, 34469, Turkey
| | - Ümit Hakan Yıldız
- Department of Chemistry, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, 35430, Turkey
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, 35430, Turkey
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9
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Gama MDS, Barreto AG, Tavares FW. The binding interaction of protein on a charged surface using Poisson–Boltzmann equation: lysozyme adsorption onto SBA-15. ADSORPTION 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10450-021-00344-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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10
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Panja S, Adams DJ. Stimuli responsive dynamic transformations in supramolecular gels. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:5165-5200. [PMID: 33646219 DOI: 10.1039/d0cs01166e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Supramolecular gels are formed by the self-assembly of small molecules under the influence of various non-covalent interactions. As the interactions are individually weak and reversible, it is possible to perturb the gels easily, which in turn enables fine tuning of their properties. Synthetic supramolecular gels are kinetically trapped and usually do not show time variable changes in material properties after formation. However, such materials potentially become switchable when exposed to external stimuli like temperature, pH, light, enzyme, redox, and chemical analytes resulting in reconfiguration of gel matrix into a different type of network. Such transformations allow gel-to-gel transitions while the changes in the molecular aggregation result in alteration of physical and chemical properties of the gel with time. Here, we discuss various methods that have been used to achieve gel-to-gel transitions by modifying a pre-formed gel material through external perturbation. We also describe methods that allow time-dependent autonomous switching of gels into different networks enabling synthesis of next generation functional materials. Dynamic modification of gels allows construction of an array of supramolecular gels with various properties from a single material which eventually extend the limit of applications of the gels. In some cases, gel-to-gel transitions lead to materials that cannot be accessed directly. Finally, we point out the necessity and possibility of further exploration of the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santanu Panja
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
| | - Dave J Adams
- School of Chemistry, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK.
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11
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Lee JG, Lannigan K, Shelton WA, Meissner J, Bharti B. Adsorption of Myoglobin and Corona Formation on Silica Nanoparticles. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:14157-14165. [PMID: 33210541 PMCID: PMC7735741 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c01613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The adsorption of proteins from aqueous medium leads to the formation of protein corona on nanoparticles. The formation of protein corona is governed by a complex interplay of protein-particle and protein-protein interactions, such as electrostatics, van der Waals, hydrophobic, hydrogen bonding, and solvation. The experimental parameters influencing these interactions, and thus governing the protein corona formation on nanoparticles, are currently poorly understood. This lack of understanding is due to the complexity in the surface charge distribution and anisotropic shape of the protein molecules. Here, we investigate the effect of pH and salinity on the characteristics of corona formed by myoglobin on silica nanoparticles. We experimentally measure and theoretically model the adsorption isotherms of myoglobin binding to silica nanoparticles. By combining adsorption studies with surface electrostatic mapping of myoglobin, we demonstrate that a monolayered hard corona is formed in low salinity dispersions, which transforms into a multilayered hard + soft corona upon the addition of salt. We attribute the observed changes in protein adsorption behavior with increasing pH and salinity to the change in electrostatic interactions and surface charge regulation effects. This study provides insights into the mechanism of protein adsorption and corona formation on nanoparticles, which would guide future studies on optimizing nanoparticle design for maximum functional benefits and minimum toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Gyun Lee
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
| | - Kelly Lannigan
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania 17837, United States
| | - William A. Shelton
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
- Center
for Computation and Technology, Louisiana
State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70808, United States
| | - Jens Meissner
- Institute
for Chemistry, Technische Universität
Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bhuvnesh Bharti
- Cain
Department of Chemical Engineering, Louisiana
State University, Baton
Rouge, Louisiana 70808, United States
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12
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Theoretical Modeling of Chemical Equilibrium in Weak Polyelectrolyte Layers on Curved Nanosystems. Polymers (Basel) 2020; 12:polym12102282. [PMID: 33027995 PMCID: PMC7601300 DOI: 10.3390/polym12102282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Surface functionalization with end-tethered weak polyelectrolytes (PE) is a versatile way to modify and control surface properties, given their ability to alter their degree of charge depending on external cues like pH and salt concentration. Weak PEs find usage in a wide range of applications, from colloidal stabilization, lubrication, adhesion, wetting to biomedical applications such as drug delivery and theranostics applications. They are also ubiquitous in many biological systems. Here, we present an overview of some of the main theoretical methods that we consider key in the field of weak PE at interfaces. Several applications involving engineered nanoparticles, synthetic and biological nanopores, as well as biological macromolecules are discussed to illustrate the salient features of systems involving weak PE near an interface or under (nano)confinement. The key feature is that by confining weak PEs near an interface the degree of charge is different from what would be expected in solution. This is the result of the strong coupling between structural organization of weak PE and its chemical state. The responsiveness of engineered and biological nanomaterials comprising weak PE combined with an adequate level of modeling can provide the keys to a rational design of smart nanosystems.
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13
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Pérez-Chávez NA, Nosthas Aguiar V, Allegretto JA, Albesa AG, Giussi JM, Longo GS. Triggering doxorubicin release from responsive hydrogel films by polyamine uptake. SOFT MATTER 2020; 16:7492-7502. [PMID: 32724986 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm00951b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine and spermine are required in many inter- and intra-cellular processes. There is, however, evidence of anomalously high concentrations of these polyamines around cancer cells. Furthermore, high polyamine concentrations play a key role in accelerating the speed of cancer proliferation. Some current therapies target the reduction of the polyamine concentration to delay the cancer advance. In this study, we use a molecular theory to prove the concept that poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) hydrogels can play the dual role of incorporating and retaining polyamines as well as releasing preloaded drugs in response. Towards such a goal, we have developed a molecular model for each of the chemical species, which includes the shape, size, charge, protonation state, and configuration. Our results indicate that PMAA hydrogel films can incorporate significant amounts of polyamines; this absorption increases with the solution concentration of the polyamines. Doxorubicin was chosen as a model drug for this study, which can be successfully incorporated within the film; the optimal encapsulation conditions occur at low salt concentrations and pH values near neutral. Polyamine absorption within the film results in the desorption of the drug from the hydrogel. An increase in the concentration of the polyamines enhances the drug release. To validate our theoretical findings, poly(methacrylic acid) hydrogel thin films were synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization. Absorption/desorption experiments followed by UV-Vis spectroscopy demonstrate doxorubicin encapsulation within these films and polyamine-dependent drug release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Néstor A Pérez-Chávez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Victor Nosthas Aguiar
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Juan A Allegretto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina. and Universidad Nacional de San Martín (UNSAM), San Martín, Argentina
| | - Alberto G Albesa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Juan M Giussi
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas, Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET, La Plata, Argentina.
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Longo GS, Pérez-Chávez NA, Szleifer I. How protonation modulates the interaction between proteins and pH-responsive hydrogel films. Curr Opin Colloid Interface Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2018.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Pérez-Chávez NA, Albesa AG, Longo GS. Using Polymer Hydrogels for Glyphosate Sequestration from Aqueous Solutions: Molecular Theory Study of Adsorption to Polyallylamine Films. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2018; 34:12560-12568. [PMID: 30247042 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.8b02727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
A molecular theory has been applied to study the equilibrium conditions of glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) adsorption from aqueous solutions to hydrogel films of cross-linked polyallylamine (PAH). This theoretical framework allows for describing the size, shape, state of charge/protonation, and configurational freedom of all chemical species in the system. Adsorption of glyphosate is a nonmonotonic function of the solution pH, which results from the protonation behavior of both the adsorbate and adsorbent material. Glyphosate and chloride ions compete for adsorption to neutralize the polymer charge; lowering the solution salt concentration enhances the partition of glyphosate inside the hydrogel film. AMPA adsorption is qualitatively similar to that of glyphosate but orders of magnitude smaller under the same conditions. AMPA is less charged than glyphosate, which unbalances the competition for adsorption with salt counter ions. In mixed solutions, glyphosate presence can significantly hinder AMPA adsorption. A higher pH establishes inside the film than in the bulk solution, which has important implications for the herbicide biodegradation because microbial activity is pH-dependent. Thus, PAH hydrogel films can be considered as functional materials that combine glyphosate sequestration and in situ degradation. In devising these materials, the polymer density is an important variable of design; polymer networks with high density of titratable units can enhance adsorption; this density can also be used to modify the pH inside the material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Néstor A Pérez-Chávez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET , Diag. 113 y 64 S/N , B1904 La Plata , Argentina
| | - Alberto G Albesa
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET , Diag. 113 y 64 S/N , B1904 La Plata , Argentina
| | - Gabriel S Longo
- Instituto de Investigaciones Fisicoquímicas Teóricas y Aplicadas (INIFTA), UNLP-CONICET , Diag. 113 y 64 S/N , B1904 La Plata , Argentina
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