Spectroscopic insights into the nano-bio interface

The similar size scale of biomolecules and nanomaterials implies a strong interaction between these entities, which facilitates novel biophysics at the nanoscale. The advancement and acceptance of personalized nanomedicine relies heavily on a holistic interdisciplinary understanding and alleviation of the undesired impacts of emerging nanomaterials on physiological and environmental systems. For instance, the interaction between nanomaterials and biomolecules elicits strongly adverse allergic and immune response, which must be mitigated for treating disease through nanomedicine. As my talk will elucidate, spectroscopy is an important tool for understanding nano-bio interfaces. Optical spectroscopic tools can provide deep insights into nanomaterial interaction with proteins, cells, and organelles, leading to the formation of protein coronas, changes in intracellular uptake, altered physiological response and other biophysical processes. In this talk, I will provide an overview of the nano-bio interface from the standpoint of nanotoxicity. I will discuss our collaborative work on defected nanomaterials, protein corona formation, and delve into some unexplored quantum effects at the nano-bio interface.