Ruthenium bipyridine sensitized MoO3 multifunctional nanostructures: Study of opto-electrochemical properties, biocompatibility and bioimaging

Abstract

Simple and versatile methodology to synthesize hybrid nanostructures with multi-functionality for device application is advantageous. Herein, we report the synthesis of MoO3 nanostructures integrated with [Ru(bpy)3]2+ and PEGylation to obtain hybrid MoO3-[Ru(bpy)3]2+ nanostructures. Chemically interacted [Ru(bpy)3]2+ provides optical and electrochemical properties to the hybrid structures. PEG3k enhances the aqueous solubility of the hybrid system. Morphology, chemical structure, optical and electrochemical properties of hybrid nanostructures were studied from electron microscopic, spectroscopic and voltammetric techniques. The synthesized hybrid nanostructures exhibited a metal-to-ligand charge transfer absorbance and emission bands in the range of 450nm and 605nm, respectively. Electrode modified with MoO3-[Ru(bpy)3]2+ and MoO3-[Ru(bpy)3]2+/PEG3k exhibit improved voltammetric properties than pristine MoO3. Confocal cellular imaging supported that these hybrid particles were easily uptaken by endothelial cells with minimal cytotoxic effects. The hybrid nanocomplex displayed unique opto-electrochemical, cellular biocompatibility and imaging features that may be an ideal platform for electrochemical biosensor devices with simultaneous bioimaging function.