Maghemite–gold core–shell nanostructures (γ-Fe₂O₃@Au) surface-functionalized with aluminium phthalocyanine for multi-task imaging and therapy
2017
Coelho, B. C. P. | Siqueira, E. R. | Ombredane, A. S. | Joanitti, G. A. | Chaves, S. B. | da Silva, S. W. | Chaker, J. A. | Longo, J. P. F. | Azevedo, R. B. | Morais, P. C. | Sousa, M. H.
In this study we report on the elaboration and characterization of core–shell maghemite–gold nanoparticles with the shell modulated for different thicknesses below 2 nm. Gold-shelled maghemite nanoparticles with an average core size of about 9 nm were developed using a single-step protocol involving reduction of Au³⁺ in the presence of citrate-coated maghemite nanoparticles. Additionally, post-functionalization of the core–shell structures with aluminium phthalocyanine was successfully accomplished, aimed at the production of a material platform for photodynamic therapy. The as-produced samples were structurally, morphologically, magnetically and optically characterized and presented long-term colloidal stability at physiological pH. Impressively, we found the as-produced samples showed good X-ray attenuation properties, making them able to be used as nanoprobes for targeted computed tomography. Moreover, in vitro nanocytotoxicity tests confirmed a superior biocompatibility of the as-produced samples, making them a very promising multi-task platform for in vivo applications.
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