Surface functionalisation of self-assembled quantum dot microlasers with a DNA aptamer

Charlton, Bethan K. and Downie, Dillon H. and Noman, Isaac and Urbano Alves, Pedro and Eling, Charlotte J. and Laurand, Nicolas (2023) Surface functionalisation of self-assembled quantum dot microlasers with a DNA aptamer. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24 (19). 14416. ISSN 1422-0067 (https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241914416)

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Abstract

The surface functionalisation of self-assembled colloidal quantum dot supraparticle lasers with a thrombin binding aptamer (TBA-15) has been demonstrated. The self-assembly of CdSSe/ZnS alloyed core/shell microsphere-shape CQD supraparticles emitting at 630 nm was carried out using an oil-in-water emulsion technique, yielding microspheres with an oleic acid surface and an average diameter of 7.3 ± 5.3 µm. Surface modification of the microspheres was achieved through a ligand exchange with mercaptopropionic acid and the subsequent attachment of TBA-15 using EDC/NHS coupling, confirmed by zeta potential and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy. Lasing functionality between 627 nm and 635 nm was retained post-functionalisation, with oleic acid- and TBA-coated microspheres exhibiting laser oscillation with thresholds as low as 4.10 ± 0.37 mJ·cm−2 and 7.23 ± 0.78 mJ·cm−2, respectively.

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