In another step forward in the field of plasmonics research researchers at Duke University in the USA, under the leadership of Dr. Anne Lazarides, have created gold-DNA nanostructures that can be used as optical biosensors.

The nanostructures comprise core gold nanoparticles with a number of smaller particles “tethered” to them by short strands of DNA. These self-assemble in solution under closely-controlled conditions. On encountering DNA in biological material in a biosensing situation, the strands of DNA expand or contract, moving the “moons” and changing the optical properties of the particles which can then be detected. The nanoparticle clusters are also small enough to pass through cell membranes widely expanding the range of possible biosensing applications.

For more information see the Duke University press release.