Design and Synthesis of Biofunctionalized Metallic/Magnetic Nanomaterials

Organic solvent-soluble nanocrystals suitable for magnetic resonance imaging are prepared by two routes, namely, a coprecipitation method and a multiple-step thermal decomposition method (seed-mediated growth). The size, shape, crystallinity, phase, and composition of the prepared nanocrystals are determined by various characterization techniques, including transmission electron microscopy, vibrating-sample magnetometer, X-ray diffraction, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Subsequently, the organic-soluble nanocrystals are rendered water-soluble by two methods, the microemulsion method and the ligand exchange method, for biomedical applications. Detailed protocols for the preparation of water-soluble nanocrystals, as well as procedures for drug-loading and antibody conjugation to the water-soluble nanocrystals are provided.