Silver nanoparticle-human hemoglobin interface: time evolution of the corona formation and interaction phenomenon

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Understanding nanoparticle-protein interactions is crucial for nanomedicine and toxicology.
• Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are widely used, necessitating characterization of their biological interactions.
• Human hemoglobin (Hb) is a key protein whose interaction with nanomaterials can affect biological systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the time-dependent formation of human hemoglobin (Hb) corona on silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs).
• To characterize the Ag NP-Hb interaction using spectroscopic and electron microscopic techniques.
• To elucidate the structural and surface property changes of Ag NPs upon Hb corona formation.

Main Methods:

• Spectroscopic analysis including surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and emission spectroscopy.
• Electron microscopy techniques such as high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM).
• Dynamic light scattering (DLS) for hydrodynamic diameter and zeta potential measurements.

Main Results:

• Time constants for Ag NP-Hb binding and reorganization were determined as 9.51 and 118.48 min, respectively.
• Hb corona formation led to decreased surface charge and increased hydrodynamic diameter of Ag NPs.
• HRTEM visualized Hb aggregates on Ag NP surfaces, and spectroscopic data indicated structural changes (α helix, β sheet) and tertiary deformation of Hb.

Conclusions:

• Hb forms a stable corona on Ag NPs, influencing nanoparticle surface properties and protein structure.
• Electrostatic interactions between positively charged Hb and negatively charged Ag NPs drive corona formation.
• The study provides insights into the dynamic evolution and characterization of nanoparticle-protein coronas.