roey elnathan

The start-ups taking nanoneedles into the clinic

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-06-2022

DOI: 10.1038/S41565-022-01158-5

Cellular Deformations Induced by Conical Silicon Nanowire Arrays Facilitate Gene Delivery

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-10-2019

DOI: 10.1002/SMLL.201904819

Abstract: Engineered cell-nanostructured interfaces generated by vertically aligned silicon nanowire (SiNW) arrays have become a promising platform for orchestrating cell behavior, function, and fate. However, the underlying mechanism in SiNW-mediated intracellular access and delivery is still poorly understood. This study demonstrates the development of a gene delivery platform based on conical SiNW arrays for mechanical cell transfection, assisted by centrifugal force, for both adherent and nonadherent cells in vitro. Cells form focal adhesions on SiNWs within 6 h, and maintain high viability and motility. Such a functional and dynamic cell-SiNW interface features conformational changes in the plasma membrane and in some cases the nucleus, promoting both direct penetration and endocytosis this synergistically facilitates SiNW-mediated delivery of nucleic acids into immortalized cell lines, and into difficult-to-transfect primary immune T cells without pre-activation. Moreover, transfected cells retrieved from SiNWs retain the capacity to proliferate-crucial to future biomedical applications. The results indicate that SiNW-mediated intracellular delivery holds great promise for developing increasingly sophisticated investigative and therapeutic tools.

Biorecognition Layer Engineering: Overcoming Screening Limitations of Nanowire-Based FET Devices

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 10-09-2012

DOI: 10.1021/NL302434W

Abstract: Detection of biological species is of great importance to numerous areas of medical and life sciences from the diagnosis of diseases to the discovery of new drugs. Essential to the detection mechanism is the transduction of a signal associated with the specific recognition of biomolecules of interest. Nanowire-based electrical devices have been demonstrated as a powerful sensing platform for the highly sensitive detection of a wide-range of biological and chemical species. Yet, detecting biomolecules in complex bios les of high ionic strength (>100 mM) is severely h ered by ionic screening effects. As a consequence, most of existing nanowire sensors operate under low ionic strength conditions, requiring ex situ bios le manipulation steps, that is, desalting processes. Here, we demonstrate an effective approach for the direct detection of biomolecules in untreated serum, based on the fragmentation of antibody-capturing units. Size-reduced antibody fragments permit the biorecognition event to occur in closer proximity to the nanowire surface, falling within the charge-sensitive Debye screening length. Furthermore, we explored the effect of antibody surface coverage on the resulting detection sensitivity limit under the high ionic strength conditions tested and found that lower antibody surface densities, in contrary to high antibody surface coverage, leads to devices of greater sensitivities. Thus, the direct and sensitive detection of proteins in untreated serum and blood s les was effectively performed down to the sub-pM concentration range without the requirement of bios les manipulation.

Fully Tunable Silicon Nanowire Arrays Fabricated by Soft Nanoparticle Templating

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 22-12-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.NANOLETT.5B03414

Abstract: We demonstrate a fabrication breakthrough to produce large-area arrays of vertically aligned silicon nanowires (VA-SiNWs) with full tunability of the geometry of the single nanowires and of the whole array, paving the way toward advanced programmable designs of nanowire platforms. At the core of our fabrication route, termed "Soft Nanoparticle Templating", is the conversion of gradually compressed self-assembled monolayers of soft nanoparticles (microgels) at a water-oil interface into customized lithographical masks to create VA-SiNW arrays by means of metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE). This combination of bottom-up and top-down techniques affords excellent control of nanowire etching site locations, enabling independent control of nanowire spacing, diameter and height in a single fabrication route. We demonstrate the fabrication of centimeter-scale two-dimensional gradient photonic crystals exhibiting continuously varying structural colors across the entire visible spectrum on a single silicon substrate, and the formation of tunable optical cavities supported by the VA-SiNWs, as unambiguously demonstrated through numerical simulations. Finally, Soft Nanoparticle Templating is combined with optical lithography to create hierarchical and programmable VA-SiNW patterns.

Dense arrays of uniform submicron pores in silicon and their applications

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-01-2015

DOI: 10.1021/AM506891D

Tunable 2D binary colloidal alloys for soft nanotemplating

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/C8NR07059H

Abstract: 2D binary colloidal alloys obtained by sequential depositions of microgel monolayers used to fabricate vertically aligned nanowires by soft nanotemplating.

Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry using ordered silicon nanopillar arrays

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 22-09-2014

DOI: 10.1039/C4AN01391C

Abstract: Surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (SALDI-MS) is ideally suited for the high-throughput analysis of small molecules in bodily fluids (e.g. saliva, urine, and blood plasma). A key application for this technique is the testing of drug consumption in the context of workplace, roadside, athlete sports and anti-addictive drug compliance. Here, we show that vertically-aligned ordered silicon nanopillar (SiNP) arrays fabricated using nanosphere lithography followed by metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) are suitable substrates for the SALDI-MS detection of methadone and small peptides. Porosity, length and diameter are fabrication parameters that we have explored here in order to optimize analytical performance. We demonstrate the quantitative analysis of methadone in MilliQ water down to 32 ng mL(-1). Finally, the capability of SiNP arrays to facilitate the detection of methadone in clinical s les is also demonstrated.

Si Nanowires Forest-Based On-Chip Biomolecular Filtering, Separation and Preconcentration Devices: Nanowires Do it All

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 02-08-2012

DOI: 10.1021/NL3021889

Abstract: The development of efficient biomolecular separation and purification techniques is of critical importance in modern genomics, proteomics, and biosensing areas, primarily due to the fact that most bios les are mixtures of high ersity and complexity. Most of existent techniques lack the capability to rapidly and selectively separate and concentrate specific target proteins from a complex bios le, and are difficult to integrate with lab-on-a-chip sensing devices. Here, we demonstrate the development of an on-chip all-SiNW filtering, selective separation, desalting, and preconcentration platform for the direct analysis of whole blood and other complex bios les. The separation of required protein analytes from raw bios les is first performed using a antibody-modified roughness-controlled SiNWs (silicon nanowires) forest of ultralarge binding surface area, followed by the release of target proteins in a controlled liquid media, and their subsequent detection by supersensitive SiNW-based FETs arrays fabricated on the same chip platform. Importantly, this is the first demonstration of an all-NWs device for the whole direct analysis of blood s les on a single chip, able to selectively collect and separate specific low abundant proteins, while easily removing unwanted blood components (proteins, cells) and achieving desalting effects, without the requirement of time-consuming centrifugation steps, the use of desalting or affinity columns. Futhermore, we have demonstrated the use of our nanowire forest-based separation device, integrated in a single platform with downstream SiNW-based sensors arrays, for the real-time ultrasensitive detection of protein biomarkers directly from blood s les. The whole ultrasensitive protein label-free analysis process can be practically performed in less than 10 min.

Monitoring the Activity of Tyrosinase on a Tyramine/Dopamine-Functionalized Surface by Force Microscopy

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 14-06-2007

DOI: 10.1021/NL0708819

Abstract: Tyrosinase activity is monitored by pi-donor-acceptor force interactions between a bipyridinium-modified AFM tip and the biocatalytic reaction product generated on a tyramine- (or dopamine-) modified surface. Upon oxidation of the surface to dopaquinone as a result of tyrosinase activity, force interactions are switched "OFF". After reduction of the resulting surface with ascorbic acid, forces are quantitatively reestablished as a result of the formation of the dopamine-functionalized surfaces. The method provides a general approach to design biosensors using force interactions as the readout signal.

Knocking Down Highly-Ordered Large-Scale Nanowire Arrays

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 03-03-2010

DOI: 10.1021/NL903560U

Abstract: The large-scale assembly of nanowire elements with controlled and uniform orientation and density at spatially well-defined locations on solid substrates presents one of the most significant challenges facing their integration in real-world electronic applications. Here, we present the universal "knocking-down" approach, based on the controlled in-place planarization of nanowire elements, for the formation of large-scale ordered nanowire arrays. The controlled planarization of the nanowires is achieved by the use of an appropriate elastomer-covered rigid-roller device. After being knocked down, each nanowire in the array can be easily addressed electrically, by a simple single photolithographic step, to yield a large number of nanoelectrical devices with an unprecedented high-fidelity rate. The approach allows controlling, in only two simple steps, all possible array parameters, that is, nanowire dimensions, chemical composition, orientation, and density. The resulting knocked-down arrays can be further used for the creation of massive nanoelectronic-device arrays. More than million devices were already fabricated with yields over 98% on substrate areas of up, but not limited to, to 10 cm(2).

Tutorial: using nanoneedles for intracellular delivery.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-08-2021

DOI: 10.1038/S41596-021-00600-7

Abstract: Intracellular delivery of advanced therapeutics, including biologicals and supramolecular agents, is complex because of the natural biological barriers that have evolved to protect the cell. Efficient delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids, proteins, peptides and nanoparticles is crucial for clinical adoption of emerging technologies that can benefit disease treatment through gene and cell therapy. Nanoneedles are arrays of vertical high-aspect-ratio nanostructures that can precisely manipulate complex processes at the cell interface, enabling effective intracellular delivery. This emerging technology has already enabled the development of efficient and non-destructive routes for direct access to intracellular environments and delivery of cell-impermeant payloads. However, successful implementation of this technology requires knowledge of several scientific fields, making it complex to access and adopt by researchers who are not directly involved in developing nanoneedle platforms. This presents an obstacle to the widespread adoption of nanoneedle technologies for drug delivery. This tutorial aims to equip researchers with the knowledge required to develop a nanoinjection workflow. It discusses the selection of nanoneedle devices, approaches for cargo loading and strategies for interfacing to biological systems and summarises an array of bioassays that can be used to evaluate the efficacy of intracellular delivery.

Silicon-Nanotube-Mediated Intracellular Delivery Enables Ex Vivo Gene Editing

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-05-2020

DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202000036

Supersensitive Detection of Explosives by Silicon Nanowire Arrays

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-08-2010

DOI: 10.1002/ANIE.201000847

Engineered nano-bio interfaces for intracellular delivery and sampling: Applications, agency and artefacts

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.MATTOD.2019.08.012

Optically transparent vertical silicon nanowire arrays for live-cell imaging

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 17-02-2021

DOI: 10.1186/S12951-021-00795-7

Abstract: Programmable nano-bio interfaces driven by tuneable vertically configured nanostructures have recently emerged as a powerful tool for cellular manipulations and interrogations. Such interfaces have strong potential for ground-breaking advances, particularly in cellular nanobiotechnology and mechanobiology. However, the opaque nature of many nanostructured surfaces makes non-destructive, live-cell characterization of cellular behavior on vertically aligned nanostructures challenging to observe. Here, a new nanofabrication route is proposed that enables harvesting of vertically aligned silicon (Si) nanowires and their subsequent transfer onto an optically transparent substrate, with high efficiency and without artefacts. We demonstrate the potential of this route for efficient live-cell phase contrast imaging and subsequent characterization of cells growing on vertically aligned Si nanowires. This approach provides the first opportunity to understand dynamic cellular responses to a cell-nanowire interface, and thus has the potential to inform the design of future nanoscale cellular manipulation technologies.

Magnetomechanical detection of the specific activities of endonucleases by cantilevers

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 04-03-2005

DOI: 10.1021/NL050204J

Abstract: Thiolated nucleic acids 1 or 2 are immobilized on Au-coated cantilevers and hybridized with the complementary nucleic acids 1a or 2a associated with magnetic particles. The duplexes 1/1a or 2/2a include specific sequences for the scission by Apa I or Mse I, respectively. The cantilevers positioned in a flow cell are subjected to an external magnetic field, leading to the deflection of the cantilevers. Upon the specific scission of the DNA duplexes by Apa I or Mse I, the magnetic particles are disconnected from the cantilevers leading to their retraction to the rest position. The deflection/retraction of the cantilevers are followed by a conventional atomic force microscope optical detection system.

Versatile Particle-Based Route to Engineer Vertically Aligned Silicon Nanowire Arrays and Nanoscale Pores

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 13-10-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.5B07777

Abstract: Control over particle self-assembly is a prerequisite for the colloidal templating of lithographical etching masks to define nanostructures. This work integrates and combines for the first time bottom-up and top-down approaches, namely, particle self-assembly at liquid-liquid interfaces and metal-assisted chemical etching, to generate vertically aligned silicon nanowire (VA-SiNW) arrays and, alternatively, arrays of nanoscale pores in a silicon wafer. Of particular importance, and in contrast to current techniques, including conventional colloidal lithography, this approach provides excellent control over the nanowire or pore etching site locations and decouples nanowire or pore diameter and spacing. The spacing between pores or nanowires is tuned by adjusting the specific area of the particles at the liquid-liquid interface before deposition. Hence, the process enables fast and low-cost fabrication of ordered nanostructures in silicon and can be easily scaled up. We demonstrate that the fabricated VA-SiNW arrays can be used as in vitro transfection platforms for transfecting human primary cells.

Optically Transparent Vertical Silicon Nanowire Arrays for Live-Cell Imaging

Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC

Date: 05-01-2021

DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-138271/V1

Abstract: Programmable nano-bio interfaces driven by tuneable vertically configured nanostructures have recently emerged as a powerful tool for cellular manipulations and interrogations. Such interfaces have strong potential for ground-breaking advances, particularly in cellular nanobiotechnology and mechanobiology. However, the opaque nature of many nanostructured surfaces makes non-destructive, live-cell characterization of cellular behavior on vertically aligned nanostructures challenging to observe. Here, a new nanofabrication route is proposed that enables harvesting of vertically aligned silicon (Si) nanowires and their subsequent transfer onto an optically transparent substrate, with high efficiency and without artefacts. We demonstrate the potential of this route for efficient live-cell phase contrast imaging and subsequent characterization of cells growing on vertically aligned Si nanowires. This approach provides the first opportunity to understand dynamic cellular responses to a cell-nanowire interface, and thus has the potential to inform the design of future nanoscale cellular manipulation technologies.

Engineering Micro–Nanomaterials for Biomedical Translation

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-07-2021

DOI: 10.1002/ANBR.202100002

Abstract: Engineered nano–bio interfaces–driven by vertical micro/nanoneedles, nanoparticles, organ‐on‐chip devices, and a ersity of nanosubstrates for mass spectroscopy imaging–are spurring scientific and technological progress, from fundamental to transnational biomedical research. Each class has its own characteristic features, which is critical for their translational uptake, but they broadly share the same range of functionality and applicability at the forefront of modern research and medicine. The review provides insights into unique attributes of microneedle technology and its ability for efficient transdermal transport of therapeutic compounds. The uses of nanoneedle technology in precise manipulation of increasingly complex cellular processes at the cell–material interface and their potential for major improvements for many fundamental research applications and ex vivo cell‐based therapies are highlighted. A snapshot in the use of food and drug administration (FDA)‐approved nanoparticle therapeutics and their applications in nanomedicine is provided. The achievements in organ‐on‐chip technology, particularly at the preclinical stage, and its potential to efficiently screen erse types of therapeutics are covered. The final section is dedicated to the use of nanomaterial‐enhanced mass spectrometry in drug discovery and imaging. Overall, this review aims to highlight those main rules in the design of bio–nano interfaces that have successfully achieved translation into the market.

Supersensitive fingerprinting of explosives by chemically modified nanosensors arrays

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-06-2014

DOI: 10.1038/NCOMMS5195

Abstract: The capability to detect traces of explosives sensitively, selectively and rapidly could be of great benefit for applications relating to civilian national security and military needs. Here, we show that, when chemically modified in a multiplexed mode, nanoelectrical devices arrays enable the supersensitive discriminative detection of explosive species. The fingerprinting of explosives is achieved by pattern recognizing the inherent kinetics, and thermodynamics, of interaction between the chemically modified nanosensors array and the molecular analytes under test. This platform allows for the rapid detection of explosives, from air collected s les, down to the parts-per-quadrillion concentration range, and represents the first nanotechnology-inspired demonstration on the selective supersensitive detection of explosives, including the nitro- and peroxide-derivatives, on a single electronic platform. Furthermore, the ultrahigh sensitivity displayed by our platform may allow the remote detection of various explosives, a task unachieved by existing detection technologies.

The influence of dysfunctional actin on polystyrene-nanotube-mediated mRNA nanoinjection into mammalian cells

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2023

DOI: 10.1039/D3NR01111A

Abstract: PSNT replicated from SiNT were used as a nanoinjection platform for mRNA delivery into mammalian cells. The study showed that functional actin plays an important role in PSNT-mediated delivery especially during the initial cell interfacing period.

Compression and deposition of microgel monolayers from fluid interfaces: particle size effects on interface microstructure and nanolithography

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1039/C6CP07896F

Abstract: Controlling the microstructure of monolayers of microgels confined at a water/oil interface is the key to their successful application as nanolithography masks after deposition on a solid substrate.

Following Aptamer−Thrombin Binding by Force Measurements

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 26-04-2006

DOI: 10.1021/AC052289E

Abstract: The rupture forces between an aptamer (1)-functionalized AFM tip and a thrombin-modified Au surface are analyzed. The rupture force for a single aptamer/thrombin complex is determined as approximately 4.45 pN. The analysis of the system reveals that the rupture forces correspond to the melting of the G-quadruplex structure of the aptamer bound to the thrombin. This melting of the G-quadruplex leads to the dissociation of the aptamer/thrombin complex.

Hierarchical hollow metal nanostructure arrays for selective CO₂ conversion

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1039/D1MA01142A

Abstract: Metal hollow nanostructures have a wide range of potential applications in energy storage and conversion, owing to their low density, high surface to volume ratio, and high contact surface area.

Confinement-Guided Shaping of Semiconductor Nanowires and Nanoribbons: “Writing with Nanowires”

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 14-12-2011

DOI: 10.1021/NL201527H

Abstract: To fully exploit their full potential, new semiconductor nanowire building blocks with ab initio controlled shapes are desired. However, and despite the great synthetic advances achieved, the ability to control nanowire's geometry has been significantly limited. Here, we demonstrate a simple confinement-guided nanowire growth method that enables to predesign not only the chemical and physical attributes of the synthesized nanowires but also allows a perfect and unlimited control over their geometry. Our method allows the synthesis of semiconductor nanowires in a wide variety of two-dimensional shapes such as any kinked (different turning angles), sinusoidal, linear, and spiral shapes, so that practically any desired geometry can be defined. The shape-controlled nanowires can be grown on almost any substrate such as silicon wafer, quartz and glass slides, and even on plastic substrates (e.g., Kapton HN).

Advances in Porous Silicon–Based Nanomaterials for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-10-2019

DOI: 10.1002/ADTP.201800095

Jellyfish‐Based Smart Wound Dressing Devices Containing In Situ Synthesized Antibacterial Nanoparticles

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 24-07-2019

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201902783

Abstract: Although the negative consequences of the global phenomenon of jellyfish (JF) swarms are well recognized, the use of their biomass for practical applications is mostly limited to a niche in the Asian food industry. This fact is quite surprising since JF's biomass comprises useful biomaterials such as Q‐mucin glycoprotein and collagen. In this work, the JF biomass, collected from two different species, is used to prepare electrospun scaffolds composed of nanometric “core–shell”‐type fibers, in which adjustment of the electrospinning process parameters can easily control their mechanical, morphological, and chemical properties. This nonwoven scaffold shows excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, indicating suitability for biomedical research contexts. Performed cell proliferation assays show that the scaffold could support the growth of cardiac cells, fitting the requirement of tissue engineering. Additional incorporation of in situ‐generated silver nanoparticles in these nanofibers produced mats with potent antibacterial properties. Preclinical trials with the resulted mats on porcine wound healing models exhibit fast and complete healing of wounds.

A MACEing silicon: Towards single-step etching of defined porous nanostructures for biomedicine

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.PMATSCI.2019.100636

Engineering Efficient CAR‐T Cells via Electroactive Nanoinjection

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 13-09-2023

DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202304122

Abstract: Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T therapy has emerged as a promising cell‐based immunotherapy approach for treating blood disorders and cancers, but genetically engineering CAR‐T cells is challenging due to primary T cells’ sensitivity to conventional gene delivery approaches. The current viral‐based method can typically involve significant operating costs and biosafety hurdles, while bulk electroporation can lead to poor cell viability and functionality. Here, we develop a non‐viral electroactive nanoinjection (ENI) platform to efficiently negotiate the plasma membrane of primary human T cells via vertically configured electroactive nanotubes, enabling efficient delivery (68.7%) and expression (43.3%) of CAR genes in the T cells, with minimal cellular perturbation ( 90% cell viability). Compared to conventional bulk electroporation (BEP), the ENI platform achieves an almost 3‐fold higher CAR transfection efficiency, indicated by the significantly higher reporter GFP expression (43.3% compared to 16.3%). By co‐culturing with target lymphoma Raji cells, we prove the ENI‐transfected CAR‐T cells’ ability to effectively suppress lymphoma cell growth (86.9% cytotoxicity). Taken together, the results demonstrate the platform's remarkable capacity to generate functional and effective anti‐lymphoma CAR‐T cells. Given the growing potential of cell‐based immunotherapies, we anticipate that a non‐viral and efficient nanoinjection platform like the one described here will offer a promising avenue for ex vivo cell engineering, particularly in the context of CAR‐T cell therapy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

Efficient Transmission Electron Microscopy Characterization of Cell-Nanostructure Interfacial Interactions.

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-2020

DOI: 10.1021/JACS.0C05919

Endonuclease-based logic gates and sensors using magnetic force-amplified readout of DNA scission on cantilevers

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 18-08-2005

DOI: 10.1021/JA0533287

Abstract: The endonuclease scission of magnetic particles functionalized with sequence-specific DNAs, which are associated on cantilevers, is followed by the magnetic force- lified readout of the reactions by the nano-mechanical deflection/retraction of the cantilevers. The systems are employed to develop AND or OR logic gates and to detect single base mismatch specificity of the endonucleases. The two endonucleases EcoRI (E(A)) and AscI (E(B)) are used as inputs. The removal of magnetic particles linked to the cantilever by the duplexes 1/1a and 2/2a via the simultaneous cleavage of the DNAs by E(A) and E(B) leads to the retraction of the magnetically deflected cantilever and to the establishment of the "AND" gate. The removal of the magnetic particles linked to the cantilevers by the duplex 3/3a by either E(A) or E(B) leads to the retraction of the magnetically deflected cantilever and to the establishment of the "OR" gate. The magnetic force- lified readout of endonuclease activities is also employed to reveal single base mismatch specificity of the biocatalysts.

Vertically configured nanostructure-mediated electroporation: a promising route for intracellular regulations and interrogations

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1039/D0MH01016B

Abstract: Nanostructure-mediated EP platforms based on vertically aligned nanowires (NWs), nanostraws (NSs), and nanotubes (NTs). Left: Intracellular delivery. Middle: Intracellular extraction of biomolecules. Right: Intracellular probing of action potential.

Non-covalent Monolayer-Piercing Anchoring of Lipophilic Nucleic Acids: Preparation, Characterization, and Sensing Applications

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 12-12-2011

DOI: 10.1021/JA206639D

Abstract: Functional interfaces of biomolecules and inorganic substrates like semiconductor materials are of utmost importance for the development of highly sensitive biosensors and microarray technology. However, there is still a lot of room for improving the techniques for immobilization of biomolecules, in particular nucleic acids and proteins. Conventional anchoring strategies rely on attaching biomacromolecules via complementary functional groups, appropriate bifunctional linker molecules, or non-covalent immobilization via electrostatic interactions. In this work, we demonstrate a facile, new, and general method for the reversible non-covalent attachment of hiphilic DNA probes containing hydrophobic units attached to the nucleobases (lipid-DNA) onto SAM-modified gold electrodes, silicon semiconductor surfaces, and glass substrates. We show the anchoring of well-defined amounts of lipid-DNA onto the surface by insertion of their lipid tails into the hydrophobic monolayer structure. The surface coverage of DNA molecules can be conveniently controlled by modulating the initial concentration and incubation time. Further control over the DNA layer is afforded by the additional external stimulus of temperature. Heating the DNA-modified surfaces at temperatures >80 °C leads to the release of the lipid-DNA structures from the surface without harming the integrity of the hydrophobic SAMs. These supramolecular DNA layers can be further tuned by anchoring onto a mixed SAM containing hydrophobic molecules of different lengths, rather than a homogeneous SAM. Immobilization of lipid-DNA on such SAMs has revealed that the surface density of DNA probes is highly dependent on the composition of the surface layer and the structure of the lipid-DNA. The formation of the lipid-DNA sensing layers was monitored and characterized by numerous techniques including X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, quartz crystal microbalance, ellipsometry, contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy, and confocal fluorescence imaging. Finally, this new DNA modification strategy was applied for the sensing of target DNAs using silicon-nanowire field-effect transistor device arrays, showing a high degree of specificity toward the complementary DNA target, as well as single-base mismatch selectivity.

The Aggregation of Au Nanoparticles by an Autonomous DNA Machine Detects Viruses

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-02-2007

DOI: 10.1002/SMLL.200600450

Highly Ordered Large-Scale Neuronal Networks of Individual Cells – Toward Single Cell to 3D Nanowire Intracellular Interfaces

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 22-06-2012

DOI: 10.1021/AM300602E

Abstract: The use of artificial, prepatterned neuronal networks in vitro is a promising approach for studying the development and dynamics of small neural systems in order to understand the basic functionality of neurons and later on of the brain. The present work presents a high fidelity and robust procedure for controlling neuronal growth on substrates such as silicon wafers and glass, enabling us to obtain mature and durable neural networks of in idual cells at designed geometries. It offers several advantages compared to other related techniques that have been reported in recent years mainly because of its high yield and reproducibility. The procedure is based on surface chemistry that allows the formation of functional, tailormade neural architectures with a micrometer high-resolution partition, that has the ability to promote or repel cells attachment. The main achievements of this work are deemed to be the creation of a large scale neuronal network at low density down to in idual cells, that develop intact typical neurites and synapses without any glia-supportive cells straight from the plating stage and with a relatively long term survival rate, up to 4 weeks. An important application of this method is its use on 3D nanopillars and 3D nanowire-device arrays, enabling not only the cell bodies, but also their neurites to be positioned directly on electrical devices and grow with registration to the recording elements underneath.

Porous Silicon Nanodiscs for Targeted Drug Delivery

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 15-12-2014

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201403414

Stable White Light-Emitting Biocomposite Films

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-01-2018

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201706967

Realization of Molecular‐Based Transistors

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-06-2018

DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.201706941

Abstract: Molecular-based devices are widely considered as significant candidates to play a role in the next generation of "post-complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor" devices. In this context, molecular-based transistors: molecular junctions that can be electrically gated-are of particular interest as they allow new modes of operation. The properties of molecular transistors composed of a single- or multimolecule assemblies, focusing on their practicality as real-world devices, concerning industry demands and its roadmap are compared. Also, the capability of the gate electrode to modulate the molecular transistor characteristics efficiently is addressed, showing that electrical gating can be easily facilitated in single molecular transistors and that gating of transistor composed of molecular assemblies is possible if the device is formed vertically. It is concluded that while the single-molecular transistor exhibits better performance on the lab-scale, its realization faces signifacant challenges when compared to those faced by transistors composed of a multimolecule assembly.

Emerging Roles of 1D Vertical Nanostructures in Orchestrating Immune Cell Functions

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-08-2020

DOI: 10.1002/ADMA.202001668

Ordered Silicon Pillar Arrays Prepared by Electrochemical Micromachining: Substrates for High-Efficiency Cell Transfection

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 20-10-2016

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.6B07850

Abstract: Ordered arrays of silicon nano- to microscale pillars are used to enable biomolecular trafficking into primary human cells, consistently demonstrating high transfection efficiency can be achieved with broader and taller pillars than reported to date. Cell morphology on the pillar arrays is often strikingly elongated. Investigation of the cellular interaction with the pillar reveals that cells are suspended on pillar tips and do not interact with the substrate between the pillars. Although cells remain suspended on pillar tips, acute local deformation of the cell membrane was noted, allowing pillar tips to penetrate the cell interior, while retaining cell viability.

Maximizing Transfection Efficiency of Vertically Aligned Silicon Nanowire Arrays

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 13-10-2015

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.201503465

Synthesis of Hybrid Multicomponent Disklike Nanoparticles

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 24-09-2008

DOI: 10.1021/NL802467D

Abstract: This manuscript describes the synthesis of a new generation of multicomponent disklike nanoparticles. In this work, we present for the first time, through the template-based sequential electrochemical deposition of metal/semiconductor olymer segments, an innovative and effective method for preparing a wide range of metallic, semiconductor, and polymeric hybrid multicomponent disklike nanoparticles covering a wide and controlled dimension range from a few nanometers to hundreds of nanometers. Moreover, we can readily tailor the desired final size, aspect ratio, and composition of the disklike nanoparticles by varying the precursor material used and the electrochemical deposition approach. Furthermore, this simple route leads to a highly reproducible and high-throughput synthetic platform of new multicomponent and multifunctional nanoscale building blocks.

Controlled Synthesis of Ferromagnetic Semiconducting Silicon Nanotubes

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 27-03-2012

DOI: 10.1021/JP2037944

Engineering vertically aligned semiconductor nanowire arrays for applications in the life sciences

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.NANTOD.2014.04.001

Silicon Nanoneedle-Induced Nuclear Deformation: Implications for Human Somatic and Stem Cell Nuclear Mechanics

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 29-09-2022

DOI: 10.1021/ACSAMI.2C10583

Abstract: Cell nuclear size and shape are strictly regulated, with aberrations often leading to or being indicative of disease. Nuclear mechanics are critically responsible for intracellular responses to extracellular cues, such as the nanotopography of the external environment. Silicon nanoneedle (SiNN) arrays are tunable, engineered cell culture substrates that permit precise, nanoscale modifications to a cell's external environment to probe mechanotransduction and intracellular signaling. We use a library of four different SiNN arrays to investigate the immediate and downstream effects of controlled geometries of nanotopographical cues on the nuclear integrity/dynamics of human immortalized somatic and renewing stem cell types. We quantify the significant, albeit different, nuclear shape changes that both cell types undergo, which suggest that cellular responses to SiNN arrays are more comparable to three-dimensional (3D) environments than traditional flat cultureware. We show that nanotopography-induced effects on nuclear envelope integrity, protein localization, and focal adhesion complex formation are cell-dependent. Migration is shown to be dramatically impeded for human neural progenitor cells (hNPCs) on nanotopographies compared to flat substrates but not for somatic cells. Our results indicate an additional layer of complexity in cellular mechanotransduction, which warrants closer attention in the context of engineered substrates and scaffolds for clinical applications.

Polymeric nanoneedle arrays mediate stiffness-independent intracellular delivery

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.1002/ADFM.202104828

Abstract: Tunable vertically aligned nanostructures, usually fabricated using inorganic materials, are powerful nanoscale tools for advanced cellular manipulation. However, nanoscale precision typically requires advanced nanofabrication machinery and involves high manufacturing costs. By contrast, polymeric nanoneedles (NNs) of precise geometry can be produced by replica molding or nanoimprint lithography—rapid, simple, and cost‐effective. Here, cytocompatible polymeric arrays of NNs are engineered with identical topographies but differing stiffness, using polystyrene (PS), SU8, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). By interfacing the polymeric NN arrays with adherent and suspension mammalian cells, and comparing the cellular responses of each of the three polymeric substrates, the influence of substrate stiffness from topography on cell behavior is decoupled. Notably, the ability of PS, SU8, and PDMS NNs is demonstrated to facilitate mRNA delivery to GPE86 cells with 26.8% ± 3.5%, 33.2% ± 7.4%, and 30.1% ± 4.1% average transfection efficiencies, respectively. Electron microscopy reveals the intricacy of the cell–NN interactions and immunofluorescence imaging demonstrates that enhanced endocytosis is one of the mechanisms of PS NN‐mediated intracellular delivery, involving the endocytic proteins caveolin‐1 and clathrin heavy chain. The results provide insights into the interfacial interactions between cells and polymeric NNs, and their related intracellular delivery mechanisms.

Deakin University School Of Medicine

Location: Australia

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ARC Future Fellowships - Grant ID: FT220100749

Start Date: 02-2023

End Date: 01-2027

Amount: $894,178.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Early Career Researcher Award - Grant ID: DE170100021

Start Date: 03-2017

End Date: 03-2020

Amount: $370,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Industrial Transformation Training Centres - Grant ID: IC190100026

Start Date: 01-2021

End Date: 11-2027

Amount: $4,969,663.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Industrial Transformation Training Centres - Grant ID: IC210100056

Start Date: 03-2023

End Date: 03-2027

Amount: $3,975,864.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Industrial Transformation Training Centres - Grant ID: IC170100016

Start Date: 05-2018

End Date: 12-2024

Amount: $3,123,492.00

Funder: Australian Research Council