Gold NanoUrchins (GU)

Non-functionalized Gold NanoUrchins have unique optical properties compared to spherical gold nanoparticles of the same core diameter. The spiky uneven surface causes a red shift in the surface plasmon peak and a larger enhancement of electromagnetic fields at the tips of the Gold NanoUrchin spikes. As an example, 100nm spherical gold nanoparticles have an SPR peak at 570nm while 100nm Gold NanoUrchins have a SPR peak at around 680nm. In addition, binding of ligands such as proteins to the Gold NanoUrchin surface causes a larger shift in the surface plasmon peak compared to standard spherical gold nanoparticles. The citrate-covered surface of the Gold NanoUrchins allows for efficient adsorption of primary antibodies and other proteins. Also, Gold NanoUrchins can be further modified and functionalized through ligand-exchange with e.g. thiol-containing ligands such as PEG and oligonucleotides. These particles can be used as an alternative to standard spherical gold nanoparticles in a wid