Abstract

Monolayer-protected nanoparticles represent a new class of receptors, capable of high affinity, multivalent binding with biomolecules. Networks of self-optimizing bioactive substituents can be introduced via facile place-exchange of functionalized thiols, approximating the diversified topology of biological surfaces. Extension of these particles to model systems and in catalysis is described.

Keywords: noncovalent interactions, nanoparticle, monolayer-protected clusters, biomolecular recognition