Fluorescence-tunable Ag-DNA biosensor with tailored cytotoxicity for live-cell applications

Area of Science:

• Nanomaterials Science
• Molecular Biology
• Cellular Imaging

Background:

• DNA-stabilized silver clusters (Ag-DNA) are emerging as advanced nanoagents.
• Their unique fluorescent properties enable intracellular molecular investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Ag-DNA nanoagent designs for live-cell applications.
• To explore their potential as intracellular optical sensors and their tunable cytotoxicity.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis and characterization of three distinct Ag-DNA nanoagent designs.
• Evaluation of their optical responses and sensing capabilities within living cells.
• Assessment of cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of the Ag-DNA constructs.

Main Results:

• Ag-DNA nanoagents exhibit sequence-dependent fluorescence responses to intracellular environments.
• Observed responses include fluorescence peak splitting and significant excitation/emission shifts (up to 120 nm).
• Cytotoxicity is tunable, ranging from highly cytotoxic to biocompatible, independent of sensing function.

Conclusions:

• Ag-DNA represents a versatile live-cell nanoagent platform.
• Its adaptable optical sensing and tunable cytotoxicity are suitable for anti-cancer, patient-specific, and anti-bacterial applications.