Scintillant nanoparticles for detection of radioisotope activity

Abstract

Scintillant-doped polystyrene core nanoparticles surrounded by a silica shell can be used to quantify low-energy radionuclides. The nanoparticles are recoverable and re-useable, which may reduce waste and allow for sample recovery. Unlike traditional liquid scintillation cocktail (LSC) formulations, the nanoparticles are made from non-toxic and non-volatile components, and can be used without the aid of surfactants, making them a possible alternative to LSC for reducing the environmental impact of studies that employ radioactive tracers. Recognition elements attached to the functionalized silica surfaces of the nanoparticles allow for separation-free scintillation proximity assay (SPA) applications in aqueous samples. Lipid membrane coatings deposited on the nanoparticle surface can significantly reduce the non-specific adsorption of proteins and other biomolecules, and allow for the incorporation of membrane proteins or other membrane associated binding molecules.

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