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Optical Trapping of Nanoparticles
Published on: January 15, 2013
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Label-Free Anti-Brownian Trapping of Single Nanoparticles in Solution
William B Carpenter1, Abhijit A Lavania2, Allison H Squires3,4,5
1Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, United States.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. C, Nanomaterials and Interfaces
|December 5, 2024
Summary
We developed the interferometric scattering anti-Brownian electrokinetic (ISABEL) trap to observe single nanoparticles. This advanced trap enables detailed studies of biomolecular nanoparticles, like carboxysomes, revealing insights into their dynamics and functions.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Nanotechnology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Biomolecular nanoparticles are crucial for diagnostics and drug delivery.
- Observing individual nanoparticles reveals variations and molecular dynamics.
- Existing methods for trapping nanoparticles have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement the interferometric scattering anti-Brownian electrokinetic (ISABEL) trap.
- To extend the capabilities of previous anti-Brownian electrokinetic (ABEL) traps.
- To study individual carboxysomes and their molecular processes.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing interferometric scattering for sensitive, label-free detection.
- Employing the ISABEL trap to immobilize single nanoparticles in solution.
- Performing simultaneous interferometric scattering and fluorescence spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated single-compartment mass measurements of carboxysomes.
- Quantified cargo-loading trends within individual nanoparticles.
- Enabled redox sensing inside single biomolecular nanocompartments.
Conclusions:
- The ISABEL trap offers extended optical observation of single nanoparticles.
- Multiplexed measurements provide rich correlative data.
- This technique opens new avenues for studying biological nanocompartments.
