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Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Localization and Relative Quantification of Carbon Nanotubes in Cells with Multispectral Imaging Flow Cytometry
Published on: December 12, 2013
Site-Specific One-to-One Click Coupling of Single Proteins to Individual Carbon Nanotubes: A Single-Molecule Approach
Mark Freeley1, Harley L Worthy2, Rochelle Ahmed2
1School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Institute of Bioengineering, and Materials Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London , Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
We report the site-specific coupling of single proteins to individual carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in solution and with single-molecule control. Using an orthogonal Click reaction, Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) was engineered to contain a genetically encoded azide group and then bound to CNT ends in different configurations: in close proximity or at longer distances from the GFP's functional center. Atomic force microscopy and fluorescence analysis in solution and on surfaces at the single-protein level confirmed the importance of bioengineering optimal protein attachment sites to achieve direct protein-nanotube communication and bridging.
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