Green synthesis and physiochemical characterization of nickel oxide nanoparticles: Interaction studies with Calf thymus DNA

One of the most promising applications of nanomaterials is that of nanobiosensors, using biomolecules such as nucleic acids as receptors. This study aimed to synthesize nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) by an environmentally friendly green synthesis, using the extract of the herb Coriandrum sativum (coriander). The synthesized NPs were characterized using UV–Visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photon spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential and transmission electron microscopy. All results confirmed the synthesis of pure, spherical, positively charged NiO NPs of around 95 nm in diameter with prominent hydroxyl groups attached to the surface. Furthermore, interaction studies of synthesized NiO NPs with calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) were performed using UV–Visible spectroscopy, UV–thermal melting, circular dichroism, and fluorescence spectroscopy. CT DNA served as a substitute for nucleic acid biosensors. All experimental studies indicated that the NiO NPs bound electrostatically with CT DNA. These studies may facilitate exploring the potential of NiO NP–nucleic acid conjugated materials to be used as nanobiosensors for various applications, especially in pharmacological, epidemiological, and environmental diagnostic applications, and in detection.     

基于DNA分子导线的纳米生物传感器

DNA分子导线具有独特的导电性能和塞贝克(Seebeck)效应,它是构筑电化学纳米生物传感器和热电偶生物传感器的理想材料。文章简要介绍了DNA分子导线的制备方法及导电机理,以及基于DNA分子导线的纳米生物传感器的分子识别机制,着重分析了基于DNA分子导线的纳米生物传感器的传感原理。文章还介绍了基于DNA分子导线的纳米生物传感器在基因分析、单碱基突变检测等方面的应用。