An MIT team has developed a method for attaching molecules to metal surfaces. The new approach uses a family of chemicals called carbenes to attach other substances to gold — and potentially to other material surfaces as well. Carbenes could function as “surface anchors” to link many compounds to many different surface materials — a process known to chemists as “functionalizing” the surface.
The anchors could be used as biosensors. A molecule designed to bond with a specific biological marker, for example, could be attached to a gold wire, activating a circuit when that marker bonds with it. The method could also be used to create protective surface coatings: antifouling surfaces to prevent buildup of biological deposits, or antibiotic coatings to prevent the spread of infections.
Another possible application might be to coat gold nanoparticles with a biomolecule that binds to tumors. The particles could then be heated using infrared light, killing the tumors with heat.
Also: Learn about a Biosensor for Organophosphate Chemicals .
