Determining the conformation of thiolated poly(ethylene glycol) on Au nanoshells by surface-enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopic assay

Anal Chem. 2006 May 15;78(10):3277-81. doi: 10.1021/ac060041z.

Abstract

The packing density of thiolated poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) adsorbates on Au nanoshells is determined by exploiting the surface-enhanced Raman scattering response of individual nanoshell substrates. By incorporating the linker molecule p-mercaptoaniline (pMA), the number of 2000 MW and 5000 MW PEG molecules on each nanoparticle is determined by interpolation of the Langmuir isotherm for pMA. We conclude that both PEG adsorbates maintain a compact "brush" rather than an extended "mushroom" configuration on nanoshell surfaces.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Gold / chemistry*
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Polyethylene Glycols / chemistry*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods*
  • Sulfhydryl Compounds / chemistry*
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Sulfhydryl Compounds
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • Gold