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Updated: Jun 2, 2026

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Luminophore Formation in Various Conformations of Bovine Serum Albumin by Binding of Gold(III)
Published on: August 31, 2018
Size evolution of luminescent lactoferrin protected gold clusters
Kamalesh Choudhari1, Paulrajpillai Lourdu Xavier, T Pradeep
1DST Unit of Nanoscience (DST UNS), Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India.
Journal of Biomedical Nanotechnology
|April 14, 2011
Summary
We observed gold clusters forming within native lactoferrin (NLf) protein cavities over time. This study tracks cluster evolution using MALDI MS, suggesting a metal ion transfer mechanism for cluster growth.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Nanotechnology
- Analytical chemistry
Background:
- Previous synthesis and characterization of Au(QC)@NLf (gold clusters within native lactoferrin) were reported.
- Understanding the dynamic formation of nanoparticles within biological matrices is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal evolution and formation mechanism of gold clusters within the native lactoferrin protein cavity.
- To characterize the dynamic changes in Au(QC)@NLf over incubation time.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS).
- Analyzed protein samples incubated over various time points.
Main Results:
- Observed the progressive evolution and formation of gold clusters within the protein cavity as a function of incubation time.
- MALDI MS data revealed distinct changes in cluster formation over time.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates the dynamic nature of gold cluster formation within native lactoferrin.
- Evidence suggests a mechanism involving metal ion transfer across lactoferrin molecules, warranting further investigation.

