Hobbs H., Briddon S., Lester E.
The University of Nottingham, UK
Keywords: cell signalling, fluorescent, hydrothermal synthesis, nanoparticles
We are using self fluorescing nanoparticles from a nozzle continuous hydrothermal synthesis reactor cell signalling. Most established methods for producing nanoparticles involve relatively noxious chemicals, have a complex and time-consuming sequence of stages, or may require expensive precursors. Our method has a distinct advantage with respect to biological applications since the nanoparticles can be doped with rare earth metals or coated during production and their size and morphology can be altered simply by adjusting the operating parameters such as temperature, flow rate and metal salt concentration. Also the metal precursors are simple organic salts, such as acetates and formates which are biologically benign. In a manner akin to Qdots, these particles can have intrinsic fluorescent properties and lend themselves to use in biological imaging. Initial work on the effect of their composition and size on their fluorescent properties have been made using standard spectroscopy techniques and their suitability of the nanoparticles for biological imaging tested using fluorescence microscopy. The paper will highlight the development of the hydrothermal synthesis nozzle reactor and how it can be used as a rapid prototyping system for a range of different fluorescent nanoparticles for medical applications, particularly in the field of cellular imaging.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 283 - 286
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 1-4200-6183-6