Enzymatic Signal Amplification Using Plasmonic Nanostructures For Applications In Bioenvironmental Science And Engineering

Abstract

In this work, we report the combined use of enzymes with plasmonic nanostructures to design a new hybrid system (enzyme-nanoparticle) for applications in bio- and nanotechnology. In this regard, current enzyme/nanoparticle hybrid systems have certain drawbacks, such as, cost effectiveness, as well as lengthy and complex preparation procedures. Subsequently, there is a need for the development of new hybrid systems, which can be prepared in a facile and inexpensive manner and can be applicable to environmental sensing. In addition, the fundamental study of the interactions of plasmonic nanostructures with enzymes (i.e., hybrid systems) can lead to the improvement of the stability and increase the efficiency of enzymes used in bioenvironmental science and engineering. In this dissertation, several fundamental issues were investigated, which include: the comparison of enzyme immobilization methods and the effect of nanoparticle loading, the application of biologically relevant enzymes to the hybrid system, the use of variety of plasmonic nanostructures in the hybrid system for enhanced enzyme activity, and the potential bioenvironmental applications. It was observed from the results that the hybrid systems show good sensitivity and acceptable reproducibility. This can be employed as a screening tool for pesticides detection.