Inorganic Nanoparticles Research Articles

Surface ligand-regulated renal clearance of MRI/SPECT dual-modality nanoprobes for tumor imaging

BackgroundThe general sluggish clearance kinetics of functional inorganic nanoparticles tend to raise potential biosafety concerns for in vivo applications. Renal clearance is a possible elimination pathway for functional inorganic nanoparticles delivered through intravenous injection, but largely depending on the surface physical chemical properties of a given particle apart from its size and shape.ResultsIn this study, three small-molecule ligands that bear a diphosphonate (DP) group, but different terminal groups on the other side, i.e., anionic, cationic, and zwitterionic groups, were synthesized and used to modify ultrasmall Fe3O4 nanoparticles for evaluating the surface structure-dependent renal clearance behaviors. Systematic studies suggested that the variation of the surface ligands did not significantly increase the hydrodynamic diameter of ultrasmall Fe3O4 nanoparticles, nor influence their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast enhancement effects. Among the three particle samples, Fe3O4 nanoparticle coated with zwitterionic ligands, i.e., Fe3O4@DMSA, exhibited optimal renal clearance efficiency and reduced reticuloendothelial uptake. Therefore, this sample was further labeled with 99mTc through the DP moieties to achieve a renal-clearable MRI/single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) dual-modality imaging nanoprobe. The resulting nanoprobe showed satisfactory imaging capacities in a 4T1 xenograft tumor mouse model. Furthermore, the biocompatibility of Fe3O4@DMSA was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo through safety assessment experiments.ConclusionsWe believe that the current investigations offer a simple and effective strategy for constructing renal-clearable nanoparticles for precise disease diagnosis.Graphical

Ultrasmall Inorganic Mesoporous Nanoparticles: Preparation, Functionalization, and Application.

Ultrasmall mesoporous nanoparticles (<50nm), a unique porous nanomaterial, have been widely studied in many fields in the last decade owing to the abundant advantages, involving rich mesopores, low density, high surface area, numerous reaction sites, large cavity space, ultrasmall size, etc. This paper presents a review of recent advances in the preparation, functionalization, and applications of ultrasmall inorganic mesoporous nanoparticles for the first time. The soft monomicelles-directed method, in contrast to the hard-template and template-free methods, is more flexible in the synthesis of mesoporous nanoparticles. This is because the amphiphilic micelle has tunable functional blocks, controlled molecule masses, configurations and mesostructures. Focus on the soft micelle directing method, monomicelles could be classified into four types, i.e., the Pluronic-type block copolymer monomicelles, laboratory-synthesized amphiphilic block copolymers monomicelles, the single-molecule star-shaped block copolymer monomicelles, and the small-molecule anionic/cationic surfactant monomicelles. This paper also reviews the functionalization of the inner mesopores and the outer surfaces, which includes constructing the yolkshell structures (encapsulated nanoparticles), anchoring the active components packed on the shell and building an asymmetric Janus architecture. Then, several representative applications, involving catalysis, energy storage, and biomedicines are presented. Finally, the prospects and challenges of controlled synthesis and large-scale applications of ultrasmall mesoporous nanoparticles in the future are foreseen.

Increased Deep Trap Density in Interfacial Engineered Nanocomposite Revealed by Sequential Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy for High Dielectric Energy Storage.

Nanocomposites combining inorganic nanoparticles with high dielectric constant and polymers with high breakdown strength are promising for the high energy density storage of electricity, and carrier traps can significantly affect the dielectric breakdown process. Nevertheless, there still lacks direct experimental evidence on how nanoparticles affect the trap characteristics of nanocomposites, especially in a spatially resolved manner. Here, a technique is developed to image the trap distribution based on sequential Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) in combination with the isothermal surface potential decay (ISPD) technique, wherein both shallow and deep trap densities and the corresponding energy levels can be mapped with nanoscale resolution. The technique is first validated using the widely-used commercial biaxially oriented polypropylene, yielding consistent results with macroscopic ISPD. The technique is then applied to investigate polyvinylidene fluoride-based nanocomposites filled with barium titanate nanoparticles, revealing higher deep trap density around surface-modified nanoparticles, which correlates well with its increased breakdown strength. This technique thus provides a powerful spatially resolved tool for understanding the microscopic mechanism of dielectric breakdown of nanocomposites.

Deep insight into physical properties of carboxymethyl cellulose-barium oxide nanocomposites

Nanocomposites, blending the unique properties of inorganic nanoparticles with polymers, are gaining momentum in various industries. This study delves into the synthesis and characterization of barium oxide (BaO)-doped carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) nanocomposites, focusing on their structural, optical, electrical, and dielectric properties. Using an in-situ polymerization method, CMC films were doped with 5 % and 10 % BaO nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that the doped samples exhibited enhanced crystallinity compared to pure CMC, with crystallinity percentages measured at 37.95 % and 28.86 % for 5 % and 10 % BaO, respectively, indicating the successful incorporation of BaO. Scanning electron microscopy illustrated the distribution of BaO nanoparticles, showing spherical agglomerations on the film surface. SEM analysis reveals emergence of spherical agglomerations and bright spots on nanocomposite film surface upon BaO introduction, indicating BaO nanoparticles presence. Further, the BaO nanoparticles act as catalytic and nucleating agents, influencing crystalline structure nucleation and growth, potentially enhancing film homogeneity and structural integrity. In addition, UV–visible spectroscopy elucidated the optical properties, indicating a shift in the bandgap from indirect to direct with BaO addition. The bandgap values decrease upon the addition of BaO, indicating a transition from an amorphous to a nanocrystalline structure, with respective reduction percentages of 22.73 % and 10.71 % for the 5%BaO/CMC and 10 %BaO/CMC samples compared to CMC. Electrical conductivity measurements showed enhanced conductivity in 10 % BaO/CMC due to improved charge carrier mobility, supported by dielectric studies demonstrating increased dielectric. The introduction of 5 % and 10 % BaO resulted in reductions of approximately 62.06 % and 65.77 %, respectively, compared to the pure CMC sample. This decrease in dielectric loss indicates an enhancement in the electrical properties of the nanocomposites. This comprehensive investigation could give further insights into the different properties of BaO-doped CMC nanocomposites, offering insights into their potential applications in various fields such as electronics, energy storage, and optoelectronics.

Effects of Different Surface Functionalizations of Silica Nanoparticles on Mesenchymal Stem Cells.

Physicochemical properties of nanoparticles, such as particle size, surface charge, and particle shape, have a significant impact on cell activities. However, the effects of surface functionalization of nanoparticles with small chemical groups on stem cell behavior and function remain understudied. Herein, we incorporated different chemical functional groups (amino, DETA, hydroxyl, phosphate, and sulfonate with charges of +9.5, + 21.7, -14.1, -25.6, and -37.7, respectively) to the surface of inorganic silica nanoparticles. To trace their effects on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) of rat bone marrow, these functionalized silica nanoparticles were used to encapsulate Rhodamine B fluorophore dye. We found that surface functionalization with positively charged and short-chain chemical groups facilitates cell internalization and retention of nanoparticles in MSCs. The endocytic pathway differed among functionalized nanoparticles when tested with ion-channel inhibitors. Negatively charged nanoparticles mainly use lysosomal exocytosis to exit cells, while positively charged nanoparticles can undergo endosomal escape to avoid scavenging. The cytotoxic profiles of these functionalized silica nanoparticles are still within acceptable limits and tolerable. They exerted subtle effects on the actin cytoskeleton and migration ability. Last, phosphate-functionalized nanoparticles upregulate osteogenesis-related genes and induce osteoblast-like morphology, implying that it can direct MSCs lineage specification for bone tissue engineering. Our study provides insights into the rational design of biomaterials for effective drug delivery and regenerative medicine.

Enhancement of Bone Tissue Regeneration with Multi-Functional Nanoparticles by Coordination of Immune, Osteogenic, and Angiogenic Responses.

Inorganic nanoparticles are promising materials for bone tissue engineering due to their chemical resemblance to the native bone structure. However, most studies were unable to capture the entirety of the defective environment, providing limited bone regenerative abilities. Hence, this study aims to develop a multifunctional nanoparticle to collectively control the defective bone niche, including immune, angiogenic, and osteogenic systems. The nanoparticles, self-assembled by biomimetic mineralization and tannic acid (TA)-mediated metal-polyphenol network (MPN), are released sustainably after the incorporation within a gelatin cryogel. The released nanoparticles display a reduction in M1 macrophages by means of ROS elimination. Consequently, osteoclast maturation is also reduced, which is observed by the minimal formation of multinucleated cells (0.4%). Furthermore, the proportion of M2 macrophages, osteogenic differentiation, and angiogenic potential are consistently increased by the effects of magnesium from the nanoparticles. This orchestrated control of multiple systems influences the in vivo vascularized bone regeneration in which 80% of the critical-sized bone defect was regenerated with new bones with mature lamellar structure and arteriole-scale micro-vessels. Altogether, this study emphasizes the importance of the coordinated modulation of immune, osteogenic, and angiogenic systems at the bone defect site for robust bone regeneration. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Targeted photodynamic therapy technique of Janus nanoparticles on breast cancer

Spherical gold/polyacrylic acid (Au/PAA) polymer–inorganic Janus nanoparticles (JNPs) with simultaneous therapeutic and targeting functions were fabricated. The obtained Au/PAA JNPs were further selectively functionalized with folic acid (FA) and thiol PEG amine (SH-PEG-NH2) on Au sides to provide superior biocompatibility and active targeting, while the other PAA sides were loaded with 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) to serve as a photosensitizer (PS) for photodynamic therapeutic (PDT) effects on MCF-7 cancer cells. The PS loading of 5-ALA was found to be 83% with an average hydrodynamic size and z-potential of 146 ± 0.8 nm and −6.40 mV respectively for FA-Au/PAA-ALA JNPs. The in vitro PDT study of the JNPs on MCF-7 breast cancer cells under 636 nm laser irradiation indicated the cell viability of 24.7% ± 0.5 for FA-Au/PAA-ALA JNPs at the IC50 value of 0.125 mM. In this regard, the actively targeted FA-Au/PAA-ALA JNPs treatment holds great potential for tumour therapy with high cancer cell-killing efficacy.

Lipid Nanoparticles as a Platform for miRNA and siRNA Delivery in Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) comprises 75-80% of liver cancer cases. Therapeutic strategies for HCC are available and have been shown to prolong survival but not treat HCC. Gene expression and regulation are responsible for the pathogenesis and progression of HCC. Altering these genetic networks can impact cellular behaviors and in turn cure HCC. Single-stranded and double-stranded non-coding ribonucleic acid known as microRNA and small interfering RNA, respectively have been investigated as possible therapeutic options. Currently, efficient delivery systems that ensure cell-specific targeting and efficient transfection into tumor cells are still under investigation. Viral vectors have been studied extensively, but immunogenicity hinders their use as delivery systems. Non-viral vectors which include inorganic, lipid, or polymeric nanoparticles are promising delivery systems. However, there are a lot of challenges during the formulation of such systems to ensure efficient and specific delivery. In vitro and in vivo studies have investigated different LNPs to deliver miRNA or siRNA. In this review, we highlight the role of LNPs as a delivery system for miRNA and siRNA in HCC in addition to the latest results achieved using this approach.

Targeting macrophages with multifunctional nanoparticles to detect and prevent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Despite the emergence of novel diagnostic, pharmacological, interventional and prevention strategies, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Nanoparticle-based platforms encompass diverse imaging, delivery and pharmacological properties that provide novel opportunities for refining diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for atherosclerosis at the cellular and molecular level. Macrophages play a critical role in atherosclerosis and therefore represent an important disease-related diagnostic and therapeutic target, especially given their inherent ability for passive and active nanoparticle uptake. In this review, we discuss an array of inorganic, carbon-based and lipid-based nanoparticles that provide magnetic, radiographic and fluorescent imaging capabilities for a range of highly promising research and clinical applications in atherosclerosis. We discuss the design of nanoparticles that target a range of macrophage-related functions such as lipoprotein oxidation, cholesterol efflux, vascular inflammation and defective efferocytosis. We also provide examples of nanoparticle systems that were developed for other pathologies such as cancer and highlight their potential for repurposing in cardiovascular disease. Finally, we discuss the current state of play and the future of theranostic nanoparticles. Whilst this is not without its challenges, the array of multifunctional capabilities that are possible in nanoparticle design ensures they will be part of the next frontier of exciting new therapies that simultaneously improve the accuracy of plaque diagnosis and more effectively reduce atherosclerosis with limited side effects.

Investigating chiral morphogenesis of gold using generative cellular automata.

Homochirality is an important feature in biological systems and occurs even in inorganic nanoparticles. However, the mechanism of chirality formation and the key steps during growth are not fully understood. Here we identify two distinguishable pathways from achiral to chiral morphologies in gold nanoparticles by training an artificial neural network of cellular automata according to experimental results. We find that the chirality is initially determined by the nature of the asymmetric growth along the boundaries of enantiomeric high-index planes. The deep learning-based interpretation of chiral morphogenesis provides a theoretical understanding but also allows us to predict an unprecedented crossover pathway and the resulting morphology.

Current Expansion of Silver and Gold Nanomaterials towards Cancer Theranostics: Development of Therapeutics

Abstract: Nanomaterial-based therapeutics is an emerging tool for the treatment of numerous types of cancer. Various types of polymeric, lipid and inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) result in a wider series of applications in cancer diagnosis and therapeutics. The NPs properties are due to high surface area to volume ratio, surface plasmon resonance, absorption in the visible spectrum and light scattering. These unique characteristics of NPs arise due to their optical surface properties for conjugation/surface modification and smaller size. In cancer therapeutics, NPs based products are used as a biomarker for early detection/diagnosis of tumours, drug nano-conjugates for the delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs to the tumour-specific site, chemo-protective agents, etc. : Furthermore, other advantages of NPs are biocompatibility, lesser toxicity, enhanced permeability and retention effect, higher stability, and specific targeting with a selective accumulation of nano drugs in the tissue of the tumour. The selective targeting of NPs to tumour tissue is possible by adding surface-active targeting agents i.e., antibodies. The selective transport of drug NPs conjugates to the cancer cells is increased and extravagated due to permeable vasculature from endothelial cells gap while failing the transport of drug NPs conjugates in normal cells. This review emphasizes metallic NPs, including silver NPs (AgNPs) and gold NPs (AuNPs), which are extensively reconnoitered in various applications in cellular targeting, imaging, drug delivery, DNA-NPs conjugates for biosensor/point of care devices development, photothermal/photodynamic therapy, protein-protein interaction, etc. In addition, this review discussed different synthetic methods of AgNPs and AuNPs and characterization methods. Furthermore, it highlighted the different properties and applications of AgNPs and AuNPs in cancer theranostics.

Supramolecular-assisted nanocomposite coatings with sustainable and robust resistance to microbially mediated biofouling and corrosion

Surface-adhering biofilms contribute significantly to irreversible biofouling and corrosion, presenting a multi-trillion-dollar annual problem in public health and industry. Strategies employing antibacterial elements are emerging to fabricate multifunctional coatings that effectively combat such microbially produced damage. However, rapid, reliable, and robust surface engineering remains challenging due to stability limitations and intricate anti-biofilm additive dynamics. Herein, a silver-capsule-conjugated polyurethane coating with high stability and antimicrobial efficacy in a cooperative manner is developed through controlled supramolecular self-assembly. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-mediated molecule entanglement breaks through the incompatibility between polymeric components and nanomaterials, strengthening the dispersion and fixation of encapsulated silver nanoparticles. The facilitation and control of the nanoscale interfacial binding significantly suppresses the aggregation of inorganic nanoparticles and consequent microcracks development, giving rise to mechanical robustness and thermal stability of the hybrid coating under extreme conditions. A synergistic combination of exposed residues, electrostatic, and coordination interactions could readily integrate the resultant coating on virtually arbitrary material surfaces. This composite coating exhibits broad-spectrum and high bactericidal efficiencies of 99.99% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, as well as excellent biofilm formation suppression. Moreover, our coating has robust resistance to microbial-influenced corrosion (MIC) and can even endure 720 h of salt spray. This study deciphers a general code for creating stable and durable nanohybrid coatings to mitigate microbially related risks.

3D cell culture of nanofiber hydrogel promotes the growth and osteogenesis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC)

Hydrogels, as a type of polymer network material with high water content, find wide application in various tissue repair procedures. In addition, a three-dimension (3D) cell culture platform similar to natural extracellular matrix can be constructed in vitro by modifying natural polymer chains. Therefore, this study based on natural polymer hydrogel, the introduction of inorganic nanoparticles POSS to prepare GelMA-POSS nanohydrogel. The physical and chemical properties of the hydrogel were evaluated through SEM, swelling test and degradation analysis. Subsequently, the GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel was used as matrix material to culture rBMSCs in vitro. CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to detect the proliferation ability and apoptosis rate of rBMSCs. The expression of osteogenic markers in rBMSCs was detected by qPCR, Western Blotting and ELISA assay, and the osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs was detected by ALP staining and alizarin red staining. The results indicate that compared with pure gelatin (Gel) hydrogel, GelMA-POSS nanohydrogel has slower degradation rate and better water retention capacity. Furthermore, in vitro cell culture experiments showed that GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel had good biocompatibility, and could promote the proliferation of rBMSCs and increase the expression level of osteogenic markers in cells, and induce osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs. GelMA-POSS nano-hydrogel based on POSS significantly improves the physical and chemical properties of Gel hydrogel, and has good biocompatibility and the ability to induce osteogenic differentiation of rBMSCs, Thus, it holds great promise as a potential material for repairing bone defects.

A Ligand-Directed Spatial Regulation to Structural and Functional Tunability in Aggregation-Induced Emission Luminogen-Functionalized Organic-Inorganic Nanoassemblies.

Aggregation-induced emission luminogen (AIEgen)-functionalized organic-inorganic hybrid nanoparticles (OINPs) are an emerging category of multifunctional nanomaterials with vast potential applications. The spatial arrangement and positioning of AIEgens and inorganic compounds in AIEgen-functionalized OINPs determine the structures, properties, and functionalities of the self-assembled nanomaterials. In this work, a facile and general emulsion self-assembly tactic for synthesizing well-defined AIEgen-functionalized OINPs is proposed by coassembling alkane chain-functionalized inorganic nanoparticles with hydrophobic organic AIEgens. As a proof of concept, the self-assembly and structural evolution of plasmonic-fluorescent hybrid nanoparticles (PFNPs) from concentric circle to core shell and then to Janus structures is demonstrated by using alkane chain-modified AuNPs and AIEgens as building blocks. The spatial position of AuNPs in the signal nanocomposite is controlled by varying the alkane ligand length and density on the AuNP surface. The mechanism behind the formation of various PFNP nanostructures is also elucidated through experiments and theoretical simulation. The obtained PFNPs with diverse structures exhibit spatially tunable optical and photothermal properties for advanced applications in multicolor and multimode immunolabeling and photothermal sterilization. This work presents an innovative synthetic approach of constructing AIEgen-functionalized OINPs with diverse structures, compositions, and functionalities, thereby championing the progressive development of these OINPs.

Applications of Inorganic Nanomaterials against Tuberculosis: A Comprehensive Review.

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to pose a significant global health threat, with millions of new infections recorded annually. Current treatment strategies, such as Directly Observed Treatment (DOT), face challenges, including patient non-compliance and the emergence of drug-resistant TB strains. In response to these obstacles, innovative approaches utilizing inorganic/metallic nanomaterials have been developed to enhance drug delivery to target alveolar macrophages, where Mycobacterium tuberculosis resides. These nanomaterials have shown effectiveness against various strains of TB, offering benefits such as improved drug efficacy, minimized side effects, and sustained drug release at the infection site. This comprehensive review explores the applications of different metal nanoparticles, metal oxide nanoparticles, and metal-metal oxide hybrid nanoparticles in the management of TB, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) strains. The synergistic effects of combining inorganic nanoparticles with conventional anti-TB drugs have demonstrated promising results in combating TB infections. Further research and development in this field hold great promise for overcoming the challenges faced in current TB therapy and improving patient outcomes.

Multilaminate Energy Storage Films from Entropy-Driven Self-Assembled Supramolecular Nanocomposites.

Composite materials comprising polymers and inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) are promising for energy storage applications, though challenges in controlling NP dispersion often result in performance bottlenecks. Realizing nanocomposites with controlled NP locations and distributions within polymer microdomains is highly desirable for improving energy storage capabilities but is a persistent challenge, impeding the in-depth understanding of the structure-performance relationship. In this study, a facile entropy-driven self-assembly approach is employed to fabricate block copolymer-based supramolecular nanocomposite films with highly ordered lamellar structures, which are then used in electrostatic film capacitors. The oriented interfacial barriers and well-distributed inorganic NPs within the self-assembled multilaminate nanocomposites effectively suppress leakage current and mitigate the risk of breakdown, showing superior dielectric strength compared to their disordered counterparts. Consequently, the lamellar nanocomposite films with optimized composition exhibit high energy efficiency (>90% at 650MVm-1), along with remarkable energy density and power density. Moreover, finite element simulations and statistical modeling have provided theoretical insights into the impact of the lamellar structure on electrical conduction, electric field distribution, and electrical tree propagation. This work marks a significant advancement in the design of organic-inorganic hybrids for energy storage, establishing a well-defined correlation between microstructure and performance.

Stimuli-responsive nanogels: A smart material for biomedical applications

Nanogels (NGs) are gaining recognition as very promising platforms for many biological applications owing to their unique characteristics, such as small size, remarkable water retention capacities, and customizable properties. Compared to traditional and micro-sized delivery, NGs are more productive. In the realm of biotechnology, nanogels have been widely utilized in recent years to address protein synthesis, enzyme immobilization, and genetics. Additionally, it is a valuable asset for the creation of innovative medical treatment systems. These are soft materials having the ability to encapsulate pharmaceuticals, inorganic nanoparticles, and tiny molecular biomacromolecules within their crosslinked networks. This property enables the materials to be used for both imaging and treatment of a wide range of medical problems. These characteristics not only improve the carrier system's performance but also aid in resolving a number of issues related to the delivery of cargo molecules.. The phenomenon of stimuli-responsive nanogels (SRNGs) has garnered considerable attention because to its ability to undergo reversible alterations in response to specific stimuli, regardless of whether they originate from natural sources or external factors. This study investigates the methodologies employed in the production of SRNGs and their utilization in the realm of biomedicine, particularly focusing on their application in tissue engineering, drug administration, genetic treatment, and wound healing.

Black phosphorus, an advanced versatile nanoparticles of antitumor, antibacterial and bone regeneration for OS therapy.

Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor. In the clinic, usual strategies for OS treatment include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, all of these therapies have complications that cannot be ignored. Therefore, the search for better OS treatments is urgent. Black phosphorus (BP), a rising star of 2D inorganic nanoparticles, has shown excellent results in OS therapy due to its outstanding photothermal, photodynamic, biodegradable and biocompatible properties. This review aims to present current advances in the use of BP nanoparticles in OS therapy, including the synthesis of BP nanoparticles, properties of BP nanoparticles, types of BP nanoparticles, and modification strategies for BP nanoparticles. In addition, we have discussed comprehensively the application of BP in OS therapy, including single, dual, and multimodal synergistic OS therapies, as well as studies about bone regeneration and antibacterial properties. Finally, we have summarized the conclusions, limitations and perspectives of BP nanoparticles for OS therapy.

Understanding Flexdispersion: Structure-Function Relationship Studies of Organic Amphiphilic Ligands.

Since inorganic nanoparticles have unique properties that differ from bulk materials, their material applications have attracted attention in various fields. In order to utilize inorganic nanoparticles for functional materials, they must be dispersed without agglomeration. Therefore, the surfaces of inorganic nanoparticles are typically modified with organic ligands to improve their dispersibility. Nevertheless, the relationship between the tail group structure in organic ligands and the dispersibility of inorganic nanoparticles in organic solvents remains poorly understood. We previously developed amphiphilic ligands that consist of ethylene glycol chains and alkyl chains to disperse inorganic nanoparticles in a variety of organic solvents. However, the structural requirements for amphiphilic ligands to "flexibly" disperse nanoparticles in less polar to polar solvents are still unclear. Here, we designed and synthesized several phosphonic acid ligands for structure‒function relationship studies of flexdispersion. Dynamic light scattering analysis and visible light transmittance measurements revealed that the ratio of alkyl/ethylene glycol chains in organic ligands alone does not determine the dispersibility of the nanoparticles in organic solvents, but the arrangement of the individual chains also has an effect. From a practical application standpoint, it is preferable to design ligands with ethylene glycol chains on the outside relative to the particle surface.

Chiral Induction in 2D Borophene Nanoplatelets through Stereoselective Boron-Sulfur Conjugation.

Chirality is a structural metric that connects biological and abiological forms of matter. Although much progress has been made in understanding the chemistry and physics of chiral inorganic nanoparticles over the past decade, almost nothing is known about chiral two-dimensional (2D) borophene nanoplatelets and their influence on complex biological networks. Borophene's polymorphic nature, derived from the bonding configurations among boron atoms, distinguishes it from other 2D materials and allows for further customization of its material properties. In this study, we describe a synthetic methodology for producing chiral 2D borophene nanoplatelets applicable to a variety of structural polymorphs. Using this methodology, we demonstrate feasibility of top-down synthesis of chiral χ3 and β12 phases of borophene nanoplatelets via interaction with chiral amino acids. The chiral nanoplatelets were physicochemically characterized extensively by various techniques. Results indicated that the thiol presenting amino acids, i.e., cysteine, coordinates with borophene in a site-selective manner, depending on its handedness through boron-sulfur conjugation. The observation has been validated by circular dichroism, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and 11B NMR studies. To understand how chiral nanoplatelets interact with biological systems, mammalian cell lines were exposed to them. Results showed that the achiral as well as the left- and right-handed biomimetic χ3 and β12 borophene nanoplatelets have distinct interaction with the cellular membrane, and their internalization pathway differs with their chirality. By engineering optical, physical, and chemical properties, these chiral 2D nanomaterials could be applied successfully to tuning complex biological events and find applications in photonics, sensing, catalysis, and biomedicine.