Characterisation of gold colloid-labelled proteins by UV-Vis Spectroscopy (CAT#: STEM-MB-0967-WXH)

Introduction

Colloidal metal particles, in particular gold, have charac-teristically found biological applications as affinity labels inthe diagnostic field and also as probes in light and electronmicroscopy. Other prevalent areas of exploitationinclude biosensors and drug delivery. The surface plasmonresonance absorbance properties in the visible spectroscopyregion of metal colloids make them highly useful tools indiagnostics, since the colloids are directly visible to the nakedeye, providing convenience for rapid testing. The wavelengthmaxima at which these nanoparticles absorb and scatter lightdepends on their size and shape, the surrounding mediumand their interaction with adjacent particles. Unlike fluorescence or enzyme-detection systems, colloidal metal probesare essentially inert and non-toxic with their opticalproperties retained overtime, augmenting their use inmedical applications