Assessing in-vivo clearance of colorectal cancer-targeting peptide-functionalized gold nanoparticles
- Authors: Xakaza, Hlumisa Belinda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Gold Nanotechnology -- Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44323 , vital:37153
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been proved as a possible diagnostic tool to target CRC by peptides conjugated to gold nanoparticles (p-AuNP). According to previous reports, AuNPs accumulate in internal organs and have raised serious concerns on toxicity and safety. Understanding their fate in the body and the physiology underlying their clearance is crucial for toxicological evaluation and clinical translations. Six groups of rats were intravenously injected with a single dose of 100μg/kg body weight of citrate-capped (c.c-AuNPs), PEG-coated (PEG-AuNPs), and peptide functionalized gold nanoparticles (p.L-AuNPs, p.C-AuNPs, and p.14-AuNPs), to assess their physiologic clearance over a short-term (over sequential time-points: day 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14) and long-term period (three months). The inductively coupled optical-electron spectrometry (ICP-OES) showed accumulated c.c-AuNPs in the liver tissue. Moreover, a rapid and decreasing pattern of concentration of AuNPs was observed in urine and feces, with total excretion at day 7. Elevated levels of urine urea nitrogen (UUN) and urine creatinine (UCREA) reported an impaired kidney function for the c.c-AuNP group, while H&E staining indicated chronic progressive nephropathy (CPN) in all groups, 3 months post-injection, which is in all probability related to aging. Signs of inflammation were observed in rats treated with c.c-AuNPs, 2 weeks post-injection. The overall findings showed that the clearance of c.c-AuNPs’ clearance is compromised, which can have side-effects, while the excretion profiles of the p-AuNPs were consistent with the reducing long-term retention in the excretory organs. The p-AuNPs were found to be non-toxic and therefore show promise for CRC diagnostics and therapeutic purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Assessing in-vivo clearance of colorectal cancer-targeting peptide-functionalized gold nanoparticles
- Authors: Xakaza, Hlumisa Belinda
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Gold Nanotechnology -- Health aspects
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/44323 , vital:37153
- Description: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been proved as a possible diagnostic tool to target CRC by peptides conjugated to gold nanoparticles (p-AuNP). According to previous reports, AuNPs accumulate in internal organs and have raised serious concerns on toxicity and safety. Understanding their fate in the body and the physiology underlying their clearance is crucial for toxicological evaluation and clinical translations. Six groups of rats were intravenously injected with a single dose of 100μg/kg body weight of citrate-capped (c.c-AuNPs), PEG-coated (PEG-AuNPs), and peptide functionalized gold nanoparticles (p.L-AuNPs, p.C-AuNPs, and p.14-AuNPs), to assess their physiologic clearance over a short-term (over sequential time-points: day 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14) and long-term period (three months). The inductively coupled optical-electron spectrometry (ICP-OES) showed accumulated c.c-AuNPs in the liver tissue. Moreover, a rapid and decreasing pattern of concentration of AuNPs was observed in urine and feces, with total excretion at day 7. Elevated levels of urine urea nitrogen (UUN) and urine creatinine (UCREA) reported an impaired kidney function for the c.c-AuNP group, while H&E staining indicated chronic progressive nephropathy (CPN) in all groups, 3 months post-injection, which is in all probability related to aging. Signs of inflammation were observed in rats treated with c.c-AuNPs, 2 weeks post-injection. The overall findings showed that the clearance of c.c-AuNPs’ clearance is compromised, which can have side-effects, while the excretion profiles of the p-AuNPs were consistent with the reducing long-term retention in the excretory organs. The p-AuNPs were found to be non-toxic and therefore show promise for CRC diagnostics and therapeutic purposes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Phthalocyanine-nanoparticle conjugates for photodynamic therapy of cancer and phototransformation of organic pollutants
- Authors: Khoza, Phindile Brenda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Chemotherapy , Zinc oxide , Photocatalysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017918
- Description: The synthesis and extensive spectroscopical characterization of novel phthalocyanines are reported. The new compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, ¹HNMR, mass spectrometry and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The new phthalocyanines showed remarkable photophysicochemical behaviour. The novel phthalocyanines were then conjugated to nanoparticles, silver and ZnO. The coupling of the novel Pcs to nanoparticles was through covalent bonding and ligand exchange. These conjugates were supported onto electrospun polystyrene fibers and chitosan microbeads for use as photocatalysts. The efficiency of the immobilized Pcs and Pc-nanoparticles was assessed by the phototrasfromation of organic pollutants, methyl orange and Rhodamine 6G as model dyes. Upon conjugating phthalocyanines to nanoparticles, there was a great increase in the rate of photodegradation of the model dyes. The photodynamic activity of the novel phthalocyanines upon conjugating to nanoparticles and selected targeting agents is also reported. The targeting agents employed in this study are folic acid and polylysine. Conjugating the phthalocyanines to folic acid or polylysine improved the solubility of the phthalocyanines in aqueous media. The potency of the conjugates was investigated on breast (MCF-7), prostate and melanoma cancer cell lines. The phthalocyanines showed no toxicity in the absence of light. However, upon illumination, a concentration dependent cellular decrease was observed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Khoza, Phindile Brenda
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Chemotherapy , Zinc oxide , Photocatalysis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4538 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017918
- Description: The synthesis and extensive spectroscopical characterization of novel phthalocyanines are reported. The new compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR, ¹HNMR, mass spectrometry and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The new phthalocyanines showed remarkable photophysicochemical behaviour. The novel phthalocyanines were then conjugated to nanoparticles, silver and ZnO. The coupling of the novel Pcs to nanoparticles was through covalent bonding and ligand exchange. These conjugates were supported onto electrospun polystyrene fibers and chitosan microbeads for use as photocatalysts. The efficiency of the immobilized Pcs and Pc-nanoparticles was assessed by the phototrasfromation of organic pollutants, methyl orange and Rhodamine 6G as model dyes. Upon conjugating phthalocyanines to nanoparticles, there was a great increase in the rate of photodegradation of the model dyes. The photodynamic activity of the novel phthalocyanines upon conjugating to nanoparticles and selected targeting agents is also reported. The targeting agents employed in this study are folic acid and polylysine. Conjugating the phthalocyanines to folic acid or polylysine improved the solubility of the phthalocyanines in aqueous media. The potency of the conjugates was investigated on breast (MCF-7), prostate and melanoma cancer cell lines. The phthalocyanines showed no toxicity in the absence of light. However, upon illumination, a concentration dependent cellular decrease was observed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Photophysicochemical properties of aluminium phthalocyanine-platinum conjugates
- Authors: Malinga, Nduduzo Nkanyiso
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-05
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Aluminium , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002954 , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Aluminium , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy
- Description: The combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy was investigated by synthesis and characterization of octacarboxy phthalocyanine covalent conjugates with platinum complexes. This work presents the synthesis, characterization and photophysicochemical properties of aluminium (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxyphthalocyanine and aluminium (diammine) octacarboxyphthalocyanine. The conjugates were prepared by conjugating aluminium octacarboxy phthalocyanine with potassium tetrachloro platinate to yield aluminium tetrakis and trikis (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine. The aluminium octacarboxy phthalocyanine was also conjugated with cis-diamminedichloroplatinum to yield aluminium bis and tris (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine. From the characterization of the conjugates it was discovered that the aluminium (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine had formed platinum nanoparticles with the Pc acting as a capping agent. The triplet lifetimes decreased with the increasing number of platinum complexesconjugated to the Pc. The heavy atom effect improved the overall photophysicochemical properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Malinga, Nduduzo Nkanyiso
- Date: 2013 , 2013-04-05
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Aluminium , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4285 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002954 , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Aluminium , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy
- Description: The combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy was investigated by synthesis and characterization of octacarboxy phthalocyanine covalent conjugates with platinum complexes. This work presents the synthesis, characterization and photophysicochemical properties of aluminium (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxyphthalocyanine and aluminium (diammine) octacarboxyphthalocyanine. The conjugates were prepared by conjugating aluminium octacarboxy phthalocyanine with potassium tetrachloro platinate to yield aluminium tetrakis and trikis (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine. The aluminium octacarboxy phthalocyanine was also conjugated with cis-diamminedichloroplatinum to yield aluminium bis and tris (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine. From the characterization of the conjugates it was discovered that the aluminium (diaquaplatinum) octacarboxy phthalocyanine had formed platinum nanoparticles with the Pc acting as a capping agent. The triplet lifetimes decreased with the increasing number of platinum complexesconjugated to the Pc. The heavy atom effect improved the overall photophysicochemical properties.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
The electrocatalytic response of metallophthalocyanines when clicked to electrodes and to nanomaterials
- Authors: Mpeta, Lekhetho Simon
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanostructured materials , Electrocatalysis , Nanoparticles , Environmental chemistry , Electrodes , Organic wastes -- Purification
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172191 , vital:42174 , 10.21504/10962/172191
- Description: Conjugates of nanomaterials and metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) have been prepared and their electrocatalytic activity studied. The prepared nanomaterials are zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles, reduced graphene oxide nanosheets and semiconductor quantum dots. The MPcs used in this work are cobalt (II) (1a), manganese(III) (1b) and iron (II) (1c) 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis 4-((4-ethynylbenzyl) oxy) phthalocyaninato, 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis(5-pentyn-oxy) cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (2), 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris-[4-tert-butylphenoxy)-2- (4-ethylbezyl-oxy) cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (3), 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris-[4-tertbutylphenoxy)-2-(pent-4yn-yloxy)] cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (4), cobalt (II) (5a) and manganese (III) (5b) 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis [4-(4-(5-chloro-1H-benzo [d]imidazol-2-yl)phenoxy] phthalocyaninato and 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris tert butyl phenoxy- 2- [4-(4-(5-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-2-yl)phenoxy] cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (6). Some of these MPcs (1a, 3 and 4) were directly clicked on azide grafted electrode, while some (1b, 1c, 2, 5a and 5b) were clicked to azide functionalised nanomaterials and then drop-dried on the electrodes. One phthalocyanine (5b) was drop-dried on the electrode then silver nanoparticles were electrodeposited on it taking advantage of metal-N bond. Scanning electrochemical microscopy, voltammetry, chronoamperometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are among electrochemical methods used to characterise modified electrodes. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Xray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy were employed to study surface functionalities, morphology and topography of the nanomaterials and complexes. Electrocatalytic activity of the developed materials were studied towards oxidation of 2-mercaptoethanol, hydrazine and hydrogen peroxide while the reduction study was based on oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. In general, the conjugates displayed superior catalytic activity when compared to individual materials. Complex 2 alone and when conjugated to zinc oxide nanoparticles were studied for their nonlinear optical behaviour. And the same materials were explored for their hydrazine detection capability. The aim of this study was to develop sensitive, selective and affordable sensors for selected organic waste pollutants. Conjugates were found to achieve the aim of the study compared to when individual materials were employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
- Authors: Mpeta, Lekhetho Simon
- Date: 2021
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanostructured materials , Electrocatalysis , Nanoparticles , Environmental chemistry , Electrodes , Organic wastes -- Purification
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/172191 , vital:42174 , 10.21504/10962/172191
- Description: Conjugates of nanomaterials and metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) have been prepared and their electrocatalytic activity studied. The prepared nanomaterials are zinc oxide and silver nanoparticles, reduced graphene oxide nanosheets and semiconductor quantum dots. The MPcs used in this work are cobalt (II) (1a), manganese(III) (1b) and iron (II) (1c) 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis 4-((4-ethynylbenzyl) oxy) phthalocyaninato, 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis(5-pentyn-oxy) cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (2), 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris-[4-tert-butylphenoxy)-2- (4-ethylbezyl-oxy) cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (3), 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris-[4-tertbutylphenoxy)-2-(pent-4yn-yloxy)] cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (4), cobalt (II) (5a) and manganese (III) (5b) 2,9(10),16(17),23(24)- tetrakis [4-(4-(5-chloro-1H-benzo [d]imidazol-2-yl)phenoxy] phthalocyaninato and 9(10),16(17),23(24)- tris tert butyl phenoxy- 2- [4-(4-(5-chloro-1H-benzo[d]imidazole-2-yl)phenoxy] cobalt (II) phthalocyaninato (6). Some of these MPcs (1a, 3 and 4) were directly clicked on azide grafted electrode, while some (1b, 1c, 2, 5a and 5b) were clicked to azide functionalised nanomaterials and then drop-dried on the electrodes. One phthalocyanine (5b) was drop-dried on the electrode then silver nanoparticles were electrodeposited on it taking advantage of metal-N bond. Scanning electrochemical microscopy, voltammetry, chronoamperometry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are among electrochemical methods used to characterise modified electrodes. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Xray diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy were employed to study surface functionalities, morphology and topography of the nanomaterials and complexes. Electrocatalytic activity of the developed materials were studied towards oxidation of 2-mercaptoethanol, hydrazine and hydrogen peroxide while the reduction study was based on oxygen and hydrogen peroxide. In general, the conjugates displayed superior catalytic activity when compared to individual materials. Complex 2 alone and when conjugated to zinc oxide nanoparticles were studied for their nonlinear optical behaviour. And the same materials were explored for their hydrazine detection capability. The aim of this study was to develop sensitive, selective and affordable sensors for selected organic waste pollutants. Conjugates were found to achieve the aim of the study compared to when individual materials were employed.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021
Electrode surface modification using metallophthalocyanines and metal nanoparticles : electrocatalytic activity
- Authors: Maringa, Audacity
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Electrocatalysis , Scanning electron microscopy , X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy , Electrochemistry , Scanning electrochemical microscopy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017921
- Description: Metallophthalocyanines and metal nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and applied for the electrooxidation of amitrole, nitrite and hydrazine individually or when employed together. The synthesized materials were characterized using the following techniques: predominantly scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemistry and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). Different electrode modification methods were used to modify the glassy carbon substrates. The methods include adsorption, electrodeposition, electropolymerization and click chemistry. Modifying the glassy carbon substrate with MPc (electropolymerization) followed by metal nanoparticles (electrodeposition) or vice versa, made a hybrid modified surface that had efficient electron transfer. This was confirmed by electrochemical impedance studies with voltammetry measurements having lower detection potentials for the analytes. This work also describes for the first time the micropatterning of the glassy carbon substrate using the SECM tip. The substrate was electrografted with 4-azidobenzenediazonium salt and then the click reaction was performed using ethynylferrocene facilitated by Cu⁺ produced at the SECM tip. The SECM imaging was then used to show the clicked spot.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Maringa, Audacity
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Electrocatalysis , Scanning electron microscopy , X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy , Electrochemistry , Scanning electrochemical microscopy
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:4541 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017921
- Description: Metallophthalocyanines and metal nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and applied for the electrooxidation of amitrole, nitrite and hydrazine individually or when employed together. The synthesized materials were characterized using the following techniques: predominantly scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemistry and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). Different electrode modification methods were used to modify the glassy carbon substrates. The methods include adsorption, electrodeposition, electropolymerization and click chemistry. Modifying the glassy carbon substrate with MPc (electropolymerization) followed by metal nanoparticles (electrodeposition) or vice versa, made a hybrid modified surface that had efficient electron transfer. This was confirmed by electrochemical impedance studies with voltammetry measurements having lower detection potentials for the analytes. This work also describes for the first time the micropatterning of the glassy carbon substrate using the SECM tip. The substrate was electrografted with 4-azidobenzenediazonium salt and then the click reaction was performed using ethynylferrocene facilitated by Cu⁺ produced at the SECM tip. The SECM imaging was then used to show the clicked spot.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Determination of nonlinear optical properties of phthalocyanine regioisomers using computational models
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electrochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Nonlinear optics , Nonlinear optical spectroscopy , Refraction
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166197 , vital:41337
- Description: This work investigates the effects of the nonlinear optical properties of four different constitutional isomers (C4h, C2v, Cs, and D2h) of a series of tetrasubstituted phthalocyanines (free-base 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines, free-base 4-4-tertbutylphenoxyether phthalocyanines, SnCl2 tetra substituted 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanine, and SnCl2 tetra substituted 4-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanine). The properties investigated were the real and imaginary components of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability, as well as the excited state absorption and refraction cross sections. The investigations were performed with a z-scan over a range of laser beam intensities. This work determined the imaginary component of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability for the free-base and SnCl2 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines and 4-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines to be highly dependent on the excited state cross sections. The refraction caused due to the real component of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability of the phthalocyanines was also investigated, however, the values found were strongly dependent on the laser beam intensity and the cause of this was investigated. A Five-level model was developed and run on GPGPU computing devices in order to isolate the absorption and refractive cross sections. Theeffects of the regio substitution on the excited state cross sections were also investigated, and the 1st singlet excited state and 1st triplet state absorption cross sections were calculated for all constitutional isomers. It was found that the symmetry of the constitutional isomers have a disproportionately large effect on the excited state absorption when compared to the ground state absorption. The nonlinear refractive properties of all constitutional isomers were also investigated, and the values of the parametric susceptibility are reported herein. The nonlinear refraction was found to have less effect than was seen in the nonlinear absorption. The 1st singlet excited state and 1st triplet state refractive cross sections of all constitutional isomer was determined. The results indicated that if more than one excited state was present and contributing to the nonlinear refraction, then more data than was collected here would be required. However, the 1st singlet excited state cross section were successfully determined for the free-base constitutional isomers. This work concluded that the region substitution affected the excited states more than the ground state.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Electrochemistry , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Nonlinear optics , Nonlinear optical spectroscopy , Refraction
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/166197 , vital:41337
- Description: This work investigates the effects of the nonlinear optical properties of four different constitutional isomers (C4h, C2v, Cs, and D2h) of a series of tetrasubstituted phthalocyanines (free-base 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines, free-base 4-4-tertbutylphenoxyether phthalocyanines, SnCl2 tetra substituted 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanine, and SnCl2 tetra substituted 4-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanine). The properties investigated were the real and imaginary components of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability, as well as the excited state absorption and refraction cross sections. The investigations were performed with a z-scan over a range of laser beam intensities. This work determined the imaginary component of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability for the free-base and SnCl2 3-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines and 4-4-tert-butylphenoxyether phthalocyanines to be highly dependent on the excited state cross sections. The refraction caused due to the real component of the 3rd order hyperpolarizability of the phthalocyanines was also investigated, however, the values found were strongly dependent on the laser beam intensity and the cause of this was investigated. A Five-level model was developed and run on GPGPU computing devices in order to isolate the absorption and refractive cross sections. Theeffects of the regio substitution on the excited state cross sections were also investigated, and the 1st singlet excited state and 1st triplet state absorption cross sections were calculated for all constitutional isomers. It was found that the symmetry of the constitutional isomers have a disproportionately large effect on the excited state absorption when compared to the ground state absorption. The nonlinear refractive properties of all constitutional isomers were also investigated, and the values of the parametric susceptibility are reported herein. The nonlinear refraction was found to have less effect than was seen in the nonlinear absorption. The 1st singlet excited state and 1st triplet state refractive cross sections of all constitutional isomer was determined. The results indicated that if more than one excited state was present and contributing to the nonlinear refraction, then more data than was collected here would be required. However, the 1st singlet excited state cross section were successfully determined for the free-base constitutional isomers. This work concluded that the region substitution affected the excited states more than the ground state.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Structural analysis of synthetic ferrihydrite nanoparticles and its reduction in a hydrogen atmosphere
- Authors: Masina, Colani John
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Ferric hydroxides , Minerals -- Analysis , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10555 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020796
- Description: Ferrihydrite (FHYD), a nanocrystalline material has long been described as a poorly crystalline disordered mineral mainly due to its small crystal size which is typically 2−6 𝑛𝑚. The three-dimensional structure of the mineral has long been described by a multi-phase structural model that consists of Fe3+ only in octahedral (Oh) coordination. In this model ferrihydrite is described as a mixture of two major phases (akaganeite/goethite-like f-phase and feroxyhite-like d-phase) and a minor ultradispersed nanohematite phase. This model has been recently challenged and a new, single-phase model was proposed, having a basic structural motif closely related to the Baker-Figgs δ-Keggin cluster and is isostructural with the mineral akdalaite, Al10O14(OH)2. In its ideal form, the proposed new structure of FHYD consist of 80 % Oh and 20 % tetrahedral (Td) Fe3+ polyhedra which can be adequately described by a single-domain model with the hexagonal spacegroup 𝑃63𝑚𝑐 and unit cell dimensions 𝑎=5.95 Å and 𝑐=9.06 Å. In this study, nanoparticles of 2-line FHYD (FHYD2), 2-line FHYD deposited onto SiO2 (FHYD2/SiO2) and 6-line FHYD (FHYD6) synthesised using rapid hydrolysis of Fe(NO3)3.9H2O solutions were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy (MS) as well as magnetization and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The coordination environment of iron atoms in the structure of FHYD was investigated using TEM and MS. The thermal transformation of FHYD nanoparticles was monitored through changes in the magnetization as a function of temperature and the reduction behaviour in hydrogen environment was studied using temperature programmed reduction (TPR), in-situ XRD and MS. Electron diffraction, TEM/ scanning TEM (STEM) imaging, and electron energy loss (EELS) measurements were carried out on three different microscopes viz. JEOL JEM-2100 LaB6 TEM, aberration corrected Schottky-FEG JEOL JEM-ARM200F HRTEM and cold-FEG Zeiss SESAM TEM. EELS studies were concentrated mainly on the iron 𝐿-edge of FHYD and iron oxides reference spectra with well known crystal structures. The iron oxide Fe 𝐿-edge is usually characterized by two intense sharp peaks termed “white lines”. The fine structures introduced by the crystal field effect on the 𝐿- edge contain information that is highly specific to the Fe3+ site symmetry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Masina, Colani John
- Date: 2013
- Subjects: Ferric hydroxides , Minerals -- Analysis , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: vital:10555 , http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1020796
- Description: Ferrihydrite (FHYD), a nanocrystalline material has long been described as a poorly crystalline disordered mineral mainly due to its small crystal size which is typically 2−6 𝑛𝑚. The three-dimensional structure of the mineral has long been described by a multi-phase structural model that consists of Fe3+ only in octahedral (Oh) coordination. In this model ferrihydrite is described as a mixture of two major phases (akaganeite/goethite-like f-phase and feroxyhite-like d-phase) and a minor ultradispersed nanohematite phase. This model has been recently challenged and a new, single-phase model was proposed, having a basic structural motif closely related to the Baker-Figgs δ-Keggin cluster and is isostructural with the mineral akdalaite, Al10O14(OH)2. In its ideal form, the proposed new structure of FHYD consist of 80 % Oh and 20 % tetrahedral (Td) Fe3+ polyhedra which can be adequately described by a single-domain model with the hexagonal spacegroup 𝑃63𝑚𝑐 and unit cell dimensions 𝑎=5.95 Å and 𝑐=9.06 Å. In this study, nanoparticles of 2-line FHYD (FHYD2), 2-line FHYD deposited onto SiO2 (FHYD2/SiO2) and 6-line FHYD (FHYD6) synthesised using rapid hydrolysis of Fe(NO3)3.9H2O solutions were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy (MS) as well as magnetization and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The coordination environment of iron atoms in the structure of FHYD was investigated using TEM and MS. The thermal transformation of FHYD nanoparticles was monitored through changes in the magnetization as a function of temperature and the reduction behaviour in hydrogen environment was studied using temperature programmed reduction (TPR), in-situ XRD and MS. Electron diffraction, TEM/ scanning TEM (STEM) imaging, and electron energy loss (EELS) measurements were carried out on three different microscopes viz. JEOL JEM-2100 LaB6 TEM, aberration corrected Schottky-FEG JEOL JEM-ARM200F HRTEM and cold-FEG Zeiss SESAM TEM. EELS studies were concentrated mainly on the iron 𝐿-edge of FHYD and iron oxides reference spectra with well known crystal structures. The iron oxide Fe 𝐿-edge is usually characterized by two intense sharp peaks termed “white lines”. The fine structures introduced by the crystal field effect on the 𝐿- edge contain information that is highly specific to the Fe3+ site symmetry.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
In vitro susceptibility of Staphylococcus aureus to porphyrin-silver mediated photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy
- Authors: Shabangu, Samuel Malewa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Porphyrins , Nanoparticles , Photochemotherapy , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Staphylococcus aureus
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167476 , vital:41484
- Description: This work reports on the syntheses and characterization of symmetrical and unsymmetrical porphyrin complexes namely, 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-pyridyl)-porphyrinato zinc(II) (1), 5,10,15,20-tetrathienyl porphyrinato zinc(II) (2), 5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-10, 15, 20-tris(2-thienyl) porphyrinato zinc(II) (3), 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tris(pentafluorophenyl)- porphyrinato zinc(II) (4), 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15,20-triphenyl-porphyrinato zinc(II) (5) and 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10, 15, 20-tris(2-thienyl)-porphyrinato zinc(II) (6). The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was also undertaken in this research work. Complexes 1, 2, 3 and 6 were linked to oleic acid/oleylamine functionalized nanoparticles via self-assembly and 4-6 were linked via covalent interaction through an amide bond to glutathione capped AgNPs. The effect of nature of bond along with symmetry were investigated, of interest were the five membered thienyl substituents. The photophysical and photochemical behaviour of the complexes and their conjugates with AgNPs were investigated in dimethylformamide. The porphyrin and AgNPs conjugates afforded an increase in singlet oxygen quantum yield. Complexes 1-6 and their conjugates were used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy of Staphylococcus aureus. The antimicrobial studies were done in two different concentrations of 0.36 and 2.0 μg/mL. The thienyl substituted porphyrin complexes and their conjugates gave better photodynamic activity as compared to phenyl analogues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
- Authors: Shabangu, Samuel Malewa
- Date: 2020
- Subjects: Porphyrins , Nanoparticles , Photochemotherapy , Drug resistance in microorganisms , Staphylococcus aureus
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/167476 , vital:41484
- Description: This work reports on the syntheses and characterization of symmetrical and unsymmetrical porphyrin complexes namely, 5,10,15,20-tetra(4-pyridyl)-porphyrinato zinc(II) (1), 5,10,15,20-tetrathienyl porphyrinato zinc(II) (2), 5-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-10, 15, 20-tris(2-thienyl) porphyrinato zinc(II) (3), 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15,20-tris(pentafluorophenyl)- porphyrinato zinc(II) (4), 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10,15,20-triphenyl-porphyrinato zinc(II) (5) and 5-(4-carboxyphenyl)-10, 15, 20-tris(2-thienyl)-porphyrinato zinc(II) (6). The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was also undertaken in this research work. Complexes 1, 2, 3 and 6 were linked to oleic acid/oleylamine functionalized nanoparticles via self-assembly and 4-6 were linked via covalent interaction through an amide bond to glutathione capped AgNPs. The effect of nature of bond along with symmetry were investigated, of interest were the five membered thienyl substituents. The photophysical and photochemical behaviour of the complexes and their conjugates with AgNPs were investigated in dimethylformamide. The porphyrin and AgNPs conjugates afforded an increase in singlet oxygen quantum yield. Complexes 1-6 and their conjugates were used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy of Staphylococcus aureus. The antimicrobial studies were done in two different concentrations of 0.36 and 2.0 μg/mL. The thienyl substituted porphyrin complexes and their conjugates gave better photodynamic activity as compared to phenyl analogues
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2020
Photophysicochemical studies of phenylthio phthalocyanines interaction with gold nanoparticles and applications in dye sensitised solar cells and optical limiting
- Authors: Forteath, Shaun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004995 , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemistry
- Description: The syntheses, spectroscopic characterisation, photophysical and photochemical studies have been conducted for a variety of phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines (Pcs). Comparisons have been made taking into consideration the influence of the central metal ion, solvent properties and substituent type. The optical limiting properties were also determined for all the Pcs synthesised. A low-symmetry metallophthalocyanine complex was similarly characterised and the photoelectrochemical parameters determined when used as a sensitiser of nanoporous ZnO. The symmetric analogue was conjugated to gold nanoparticles to determine the influence of interactions on its photophysical properties and distinct differences occurred in the absorption and fluorescence spectra suggesting successful formation of conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Forteath, Shaun
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemistry
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4334 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004995 , Phthalocyanines , Nanoparticles , Photochemistry
- Description: The syntheses, spectroscopic characterisation, photophysical and photochemical studies have been conducted for a variety of phenylthio substituted phthalocyanines (Pcs). Comparisons have been made taking into consideration the influence of the central metal ion, solvent properties and substituent type. The optical limiting properties were also determined for all the Pcs synthesised. A low-symmetry metallophthalocyanine complex was similarly characterised and the photoelectrochemical parameters determined when used as a sensitiser of nanoporous ZnO. The symmetric analogue was conjugated to gold nanoparticles to determine the influence of interactions on its photophysical properties and distinct differences occurred in the absorption and fluorescence spectra suggesting successful formation of conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
The development of platinum and palladium-selective polymeric materials
- Authors: Fayemi, Omolola Esther
- Date: 2013 , 2013-05-03
- Subjects: Polymers , Platinum , Palladium , Adsorption , Sorbents , Nanofibers , Amines , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002964 , Polymers , Platinum , Palladium , Adsorption , Sorbents , Nanofibers , Amines , Nanoparticles
- Description: The adsorption and separation of platinum(IV) and palladium(II) chlorido species (PtCl₆²⁻ and PdCl₄²⁻) on polystyrene-based beads and nanofibers as well as silica microparticles functionalized with polyamine centres derived from ethylenediamine (EDA), diethylenetriamine (DETA), triethylenetriamine (TETA) and tris-(2-aminoethyl)amine (TAEA) is described. The functionalized sorbent materials were characterized by using microanalysis, SEM, XPS, BET and FTIR. The nanofiber sorbent material functionalized with ethylenediamine (F-EDA) had the highest loading capacity which was attributed to its high nitrogen content (10.83%) and larger surface area (241.3m²/g). The adsorption and loading capacities of the sorption materials were investigated using both the batch and column studies in 1 M HCI. The adsorption studies for both PtCl₆²⁻ and PdCl₄²⁻ on the polystyrene-based sorbent materials fit the Langmuir isotherm while the silica-based sorbents fitted the Freundlich isotherm with R² values > 0.99. In the column experiment the highest loading capacity of Pt and Pd were 7.4 mg/g and 4.3 mg/g respectively on the nanofiber sorbent material based on ethylenediamine (EDA). The polystyrene and silica-based resins with triethylenetetramine (TETA) functionality (M-TETA and S-TETA) showed selectivity for platinum and palladium, respectively. Metal chlorido complexes loaded on the sorbent materials were recovered by using 3% m/v thiourea solution as teh eluting agent with quantitative desorption efficiency under the selected experimental conditions. The separation of platinum from palladium was partially achieved by selective stripping of PtCl₆²⁻ with 0.5 M of NaClO₄ in 1.0 M HCI with PdCl₄²⁻ was eluted with 0.5 M thiourea in 1.0 M HCI. The selectivity of the M-TETA and S-TETA sorbent materials was proved by column separation of platinum(IV) and palladium(II), respectively, from synthetic solutions containing iridium(IV) and rhodium(III). The loading capacity for platinum on M-TETA was 0.09 mg/g while it was 0.27 mg/g for palladium on S-TETA. , Acrobat PDFMaker 10.1 for Word , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Fayemi, Omolola Esther
- Date: 2013 , 2013-05-03
- Subjects: Polymers , Platinum , Palladium , Adsorption , Sorbents , Nanofibers , Amines , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4287 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1002964 , Polymers , Platinum , Palladium , Adsorption , Sorbents , Nanofibers , Amines , Nanoparticles
- Description: The adsorption and separation of platinum(IV) and palladium(II) chlorido species (PtCl₆²⁻ and PdCl₄²⁻) on polystyrene-based beads and nanofibers as well as silica microparticles functionalized with polyamine centres derived from ethylenediamine (EDA), diethylenetriamine (DETA), triethylenetriamine (TETA) and tris-(2-aminoethyl)amine (TAEA) is described. The functionalized sorbent materials were characterized by using microanalysis, SEM, XPS, BET and FTIR. The nanofiber sorbent material functionalized with ethylenediamine (F-EDA) had the highest loading capacity which was attributed to its high nitrogen content (10.83%) and larger surface area (241.3m²/g). The adsorption and loading capacities of the sorption materials were investigated using both the batch and column studies in 1 M HCI. The adsorption studies for both PtCl₆²⁻ and PdCl₄²⁻ on the polystyrene-based sorbent materials fit the Langmuir isotherm while the silica-based sorbents fitted the Freundlich isotherm with R² values > 0.99. In the column experiment the highest loading capacity of Pt and Pd were 7.4 mg/g and 4.3 mg/g respectively on the nanofiber sorbent material based on ethylenediamine (EDA). The polystyrene and silica-based resins with triethylenetetramine (TETA) functionality (M-TETA and S-TETA) showed selectivity for platinum and palladium, respectively. Metal chlorido complexes loaded on the sorbent materials were recovered by using 3% m/v thiourea solution as teh eluting agent with quantitative desorption efficiency under the selected experimental conditions. The separation of platinum from palladium was partially achieved by selective stripping of PtCl₆²⁻ with 0.5 M of NaClO₄ in 1.0 M HCI with PdCl₄²⁻ was eluted with 0.5 M thiourea in 1.0 M HCI. The selectivity of the M-TETA and S-TETA sorbent materials was proved by column separation of platinum(IV) and palladium(II), respectively, from synthetic solutions containing iridium(IV) and rhodium(III). The loading capacity for platinum on M-TETA was 0.09 mg/g while it was 0.27 mg/g for palladium on S-TETA. , Acrobat PDFMaker 10.1 for Word , Adobe Acrobat 9.54 Paper Capture Plug-in
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Physicochemical properties and photodynamic therapy activities of indium and zinc phthalocyanine-nanoparticle conjugates
- Authors: Dube, Edith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Indium , Zinc , Phthalocyanines , Breast -- Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76506 , vital:30589
- Description: The syntheses and characterization of symmetric and asymmetric Pcs functionalized at the peripheral position are reported. The Pcs contain either zinc or indium as central metals and have carboxyphenoxy, phenoxy propanoic acid, benzothiazole phenoxy, thiophine ethoxy or di-O-isopropylidene-α-D-glucopyranose as ring substituents. The Pcs were linked to NPs via an amide bond or through self-assembly. The photophysics and photochemistry of the Pcs were assessed when alone and with conjugates. All the studied Pcs showed good photophysicochemical behaviour with relatively high triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields corresponding to their low fluorescence quantum yield. The Pcs with indium in their central cavity exhibited higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields in comparison to their zinc counterparts due to the heavy–atom effect obtained from the former. Asymmetrical Pcs displayed higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields than their symmetrical counterparts. The triplet quantum yield, generally increased on linkage to nanoparticles (NPs) due to the heavy–atom effect of gold and silver in NPs. The conjugates to gold nanospheres yielded higher triplet and singlet quantum yields than their gold nanotriangles counterparts due to the higher loading by the former probably encouraged by their relatively small particle size. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic therapy of selected Pc complexes and conjugates against MCF-7 cells was tested. All studied Pc complexes and conjugates showed minimum dark toxicity making them applicable for PDT. All complexes displayed poor phototoxicity with >50Îll viability at concentrations≤ 160μg/mL, however the conjugates showed<50% cell viabilityatconcentrations≤ 160μg/mLprobably due to the enhanced singlet oxygen quantum yield. The findings from this work show the importance of linking photosensitises such as phthalocyanines to metal nanoparticles for the enhancement ofsinglet oxygen quantum yield and ultimately the photodynamic effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Dube, Edith
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Indium , Zinc , Phthalocyanines , Breast -- Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Doctoral , PhD
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76506 , vital:30589
- Description: The syntheses and characterization of symmetric and asymmetric Pcs functionalized at the peripheral position are reported. The Pcs contain either zinc or indium as central metals and have carboxyphenoxy, phenoxy propanoic acid, benzothiazole phenoxy, thiophine ethoxy or di-O-isopropylidene-α-D-glucopyranose as ring substituents. The Pcs were linked to NPs via an amide bond or through self-assembly. The photophysics and photochemistry of the Pcs were assessed when alone and with conjugates. All the studied Pcs showed good photophysicochemical behaviour with relatively high triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields corresponding to their low fluorescence quantum yield. The Pcs with indium in their central cavity exhibited higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields in comparison to their zinc counterparts due to the heavy–atom effect obtained from the former. Asymmetrical Pcs displayed higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields than their symmetrical counterparts. The triplet quantum yield, generally increased on linkage to nanoparticles (NPs) due to the heavy–atom effect of gold and silver in NPs. The conjugates to gold nanospheres yielded higher triplet and singlet quantum yields than their gold nanotriangles counterparts due to the higher loading by the former probably encouraged by their relatively small particle size. The in vitro dark cytotoxicity and photodynamic therapy of selected Pc complexes and conjugates against MCF-7 cells was tested. All studied Pc complexes and conjugates showed minimum dark toxicity making them applicable for PDT. All complexes displayed poor phototoxicity with >50Îll viability at concentrations≤ 160μg/mL, however the conjugates showed<50% cell viabilityatconcentrations≤ 160μg/mLprobably due to the enhanced singlet oxygen quantum yield. The findings from this work show the importance of linking photosensitises such as phthalocyanines to metal nanoparticles for the enhancement ofsinglet oxygen quantum yield and ultimately the photodynamic effect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Interaction of catechol O-methyltransferase with gold and silver nanoparticles
- Authors: Usman, Aminu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Parkinson's disease , Methyltransferases , Catechol , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61818 , vital:28063 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/61818
- Description: Catechol O-methyltransferase (S-adenosyl-Z-methionine: catechol O-methyltransferase; COMT; EC 2.1.1.6) is a ubiquitous enzyme that catalyses the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor, S-adenosyl-Z-methionine (SAM) to a hydroxyl group of endogenous and exogenous catechol-containing moieties. The physiological role of this enzyme is the methylation and thereby inactivation of the catechol-containing bio-active and bio-toxic compounds, including catechol-neurotransmitters, catechol-estrogens and catechol-containing drugs. Activity of this enzyme is implicated in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and is associated with other diseases including breast cancer and an array neuropsychological disorders, such as schizophrenia. This thesis explores the use of gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) (AuNPs and AgNPs) to inhibit the catalytic activity of mammalian COMT. Because of its accessibility and availability, we initially investigated bovine soluble COMT (BSCOMT) from liver tissue. Bioinformatic analyses and structural modeling revealed high (>90%) sequence similarity between BSCOMT and human soluble COMT (HSCOMT). BSCOMT was partially purified to 7.78 fold, 1.65% yield and had a specific activity of 0.052 U/mg. It had pH and temperature optima of 8.5 and 40oC, respectively. The Km, Vmax, Kcat and Kcat/Km towards esculetin methylation were respectively 1.475±0.130 pM, 0.0353±0.001 pmol/ml/min, 1.748 x 10-2±5.0x10-4 min-1 and 1.18x10-2 M-1. min-1. HSCOMT was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) which showed optimal activity for esculetin methylation at pH and temperature of 7.0 and 30°C, respectively. It was purified to 5.62 fold, 22.6% yield with a specific activity of 3.85 U/mg. HSCOMT kinetic plots, upon incubation of the reaction mixture at 30°C for 5 min before addition of SAM was hyperbolic with Km, Vmax, Kcat and Kcat/Km values of 1.79 pM, 0.412 pmol/ml/min, 2.08 min-1 and 1.165 M-1. min-1, respectively. AuNPs and AgNPs showed a concentration dependent inhibition of HSCOMT activity upon increasing the 5 min incubation time to 1 h. Interestingly, HSCOMT kinetics, with 1 h incubation at 30°C, showed a sigmoidal curve, as well as increased activity. Incubation of the reaction mixture in the presence of 60 pM AuNPs and/or AgNPs for 1 hreversed the observed sigmoidal to a hyperbolic curve, with kinetic parameters comparable to those of 5 min incubation. SDS-PAGE analyses of HSCOMT after the kinetic experiments showed the enzyme incubated for 5 min as a monomer, while that which was incubated for 1 h migrated substantially as dimer. However, the HSCOMT incubated for 1 h in the presence of 60 pM AuNPs and/or AgNPs migrated as a monomer. This indicated that the extension of the incubation period allowed the dimerization of HSCOMT, which exhibited sigmoidal kinetics and higher activity. The presence of NPs impeded the HSCOMT dimerization which decreased the activity. Varying the concentration of SAM suggested that SAM had an allosteric modulatory effect on HSCOMT. Absorption spectroscopy indicated adsorption of HSCOMT on the gold and silver NP surfaces and the formation of NPs-HSCOMT corona. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the interaction of HSCOMT with both gold and silver NPs was governed by a static quenching mechanism, implying the formation of a non-fluorescent fluorophore-NP complex at the ground state. Further fluorometric analyses indicated that both gold and silver NPs had contact with Trp143; that the interactions were spontaneous and were driven by electrostatic interactions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies showed the adsorption of HSCOMT of the NPs surfaces to cause relaxation of the enzyme’s B-sheet structures. Molecular docking studies indicated involvement of largely hydrophilic amino acids, with the interacting distances of less than 3.5A. These findings signify the potential of nanotechnology in the control of COMT catalytic activity for the management of the COMT-related disorders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Usman, Aminu
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Parkinson's disease , Methyltransferases , Catechol , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61818 , vital:28063 , DOI https://doi.org/10.21504/10962/61818
- Description: Catechol O-methyltransferase (S-adenosyl-Z-methionine: catechol O-methyltransferase; COMT; EC 2.1.1.6) is a ubiquitous enzyme that catalyses the transfer of a methyl group from the cofactor, S-adenosyl-Z-methionine (SAM) to a hydroxyl group of endogenous and exogenous catechol-containing moieties. The physiological role of this enzyme is the methylation and thereby inactivation of the catechol-containing bio-active and bio-toxic compounds, including catechol-neurotransmitters, catechol-estrogens and catechol-containing drugs. Activity of this enzyme is implicated in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and is associated with other diseases including breast cancer and an array neuropsychological disorders, such as schizophrenia. This thesis explores the use of gold and silver nanoparticles (NPs) (AuNPs and AgNPs) to inhibit the catalytic activity of mammalian COMT. Because of its accessibility and availability, we initially investigated bovine soluble COMT (BSCOMT) from liver tissue. Bioinformatic analyses and structural modeling revealed high (>90%) sequence similarity between BSCOMT and human soluble COMT (HSCOMT). BSCOMT was partially purified to 7.78 fold, 1.65% yield and had a specific activity of 0.052 U/mg. It had pH and temperature optima of 8.5 and 40oC, respectively. The Km, Vmax, Kcat and Kcat/Km towards esculetin methylation were respectively 1.475±0.130 pM, 0.0353±0.001 pmol/ml/min, 1.748 x 10-2±5.0x10-4 min-1 and 1.18x10-2 M-1. min-1. HSCOMT was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) which showed optimal activity for esculetin methylation at pH and temperature of 7.0 and 30°C, respectively. It was purified to 5.62 fold, 22.6% yield with a specific activity of 3.85 U/mg. HSCOMT kinetic plots, upon incubation of the reaction mixture at 30°C for 5 min before addition of SAM was hyperbolic with Km, Vmax, Kcat and Kcat/Km values of 1.79 pM, 0.412 pmol/ml/min, 2.08 min-1 and 1.165 M-1. min-1, respectively. AuNPs and AgNPs showed a concentration dependent inhibition of HSCOMT activity upon increasing the 5 min incubation time to 1 h. Interestingly, HSCOMT kinetics, with 1 h incubation at 30°C, showed a sigmoidal curve, as well as increased activity. Incubation of the reaction mixture in the presence of 60 pM AuNPs and/or AgNPs for 1 hreversed the observed sigmoidal to a hyperbolic curve, with kinetic parameters comparable to those of 5 min incubation. SDS-PAGE analyses of HSCOMT after the kinetic experiments showed the enzyme incubated for 5 min as a monomer, while that which was incubated for 1 h migrated substantially as dimer. However, the HSCOMT incubated for 1 h in the presence of 60 pM AuNPs and/or AgNPs migrated as a monomer. This indicated that the extension of the incubation period allowed the dimerization of HSCOMT, which exhibited sigmoidal kinetics and higher activity. The presence of NPs impeded the HSCOMT dimerization which decreased the activity. Varying the concentration of SAM suggested that SAM had an allosteric modulatory effect on HSCOMT. Absorption spectroscopy indicated adsorption of HSCOMT on the gold and silver NP surfaces and the formation of NPs-HSCOMT corona. Fluorescence spectroscopy showed that the interaction of HSCOMT with both gold and silver NPs was governed by a static quenching mechanism, implying the formation of a non-fluorescent fluorophore-NP complex at the ground state. Further fluorometric analyses indicated that both gold and silver NPs had contact with Trp143; that the interactions were spontaneous and were driven by electrostatic interactions. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic studies showed the adsorption of HSCOMT of the NPs surfaces to cause relaxation of the enzyme’s B-sheet structures. Molecular docking studies indicated involvement of largely hydrophilic amino acids, with the interacting distances of less than 3.5A. These findings signify the potential of nanotechnology in the control of COMT catalytic activity for the management of the COMT-related disorders. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Biochemistry and Microbiology, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Syntheses and photophysico-chemical properties of phthalocyanines in the presence of silica nanoparticles
- Authors: Peteni, Siwaphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Silica , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67592 , vital:29118
- Description: This thesis reports on the syntheses and characterizationof symmetrical (charged and neutral), asymmetrical (neutral) metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) and subphthalocyanines (SubPcs). The charged and neutral Pcs were physically doped onto silica nanoparticles (SiNPs). The asymmetrical MPc was also chemically linked to SiNPs. Spectroscopic and microscopic techniques were used to confirm the formation of SiNPs-MPc conjugates. The photophysics and photochemistry of the MPcs were assessed when alone and in conjugates (with SiNPs). The studies showed no significant changes in fluorescence quantum yields (ϕF) and fluorescence lifetimes (ϕF) of MPcs following doping except for 2-SiNPs (2 = Zn tetraaminophenoxyphthalocyanines) and 6-SiNPs (doped) (6 = Zn tris[(4-(pyridine-4-ylthio)2-thio-4-methylthiazol-5yl) acetic acid phthalocyanine) where there was a decrease in the ϕF value. Also for 1-SiNPs (1 = unsubstituted ZnPc) there was an elongation in τF which could be due to the protection offered by SiNPs. Both charged/neutral MPcs displayed high triplet quantum yields (ϕT) and singlet quantum yields (ϕΔ) following doping except for 2-SiNPs where there was a decrease in the latter. For 1-SiNPs there was an increase in ϕT but a decrease inϕΔ .There wasa decrease in ϕT and an increase in ϕΔfor4-SiNPs (4 = Zn tetrasulfophenoxyphthalocyanine), the decrease in ϕT could be due to the orientation of theMPc in SiNPs. An increase in both ϕT and ϕΔ for 6-SiNPs (linked) compared to 6-SiNPs (doped) was observed. Complex 5 (5 = Zn tetra-kis-(dodecylmercapto) phthalocyanine) showed a low ϕΔ value.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
- Authors: Peteni, Siwaphiwe
- Date: 2019
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Silica , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/67592 , vital:29118
- Description: This thesis reports on the syntheses and characterizationof symmetrical (charged and neutral), asymmetrical (neutral) metallophthalocyanines (MPcs) and subphthalocyanines (SubPcs). The charged and neutral Pcs were physically doped onto silica nanoparticles (SiNPs). The asymmetrical MPc was also chemically linked to SiNPs. Spectroscopic and microscopic techniques were used to confirm the formation of SiNPs-MPc conjugates. The photophysics and photochemistry of the MPcs were assessed when alone and in conjugates (with SiNPs). The studies showed no significant changes in fluorescence quantum yields (ϕF) and fluorescence lifetimes (ϕF) of MPcs following doping except for 2-SiNPs (2 = Zn tetraaminophenoxyphthalocyanines) and 6-SiNPs (doped) (6 = Zn tris[(4-(pyridine-4-ylthio)2-thio-4-methylthiazol-5yl) acetic acid phthalocyanine) where there was a decrease in the ϕF value. Also for 1-SiNPs (1 = unsubstituted ZnPc) there was an elongation in τF which could be due to the protection offered by SiNPs. Both charged/neutral MPcs displayed high triplet quantum yields (ϕT) and singlet quantum yields (ϕΔ) following doping except for 2-SiNPs where there was a decrease in the latter. For 1-SiNPs there was an increase in ϕT but a decrease inϕΔ .There wasa decrease in ϕT and an increase in ϕΔfor4-SiNPs (4 = Zn tetrasulfophenoxyphthalocyanine), the decrease in ϕT could be due to the orientation of theMPc in SiNPs. An increase in both ϕT and ϕΔ for 6-SiNPs (linked) compared to 6-SiNPs (doped) was observed. Complex 5 (5 = Zn tetra-kis-(dodecylmercapto) phthalocyanine) showed a low ϕΔ value.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2019
Copper dithiocarbamate complexes and copper sulfide nanoparticles : Synthesis, characterization and antifungal studies
- Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Authors: Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Copper sulfide , Complex compounds , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24283 , vital:62598
- Description: Six dithiocarbamate ligands were synthesized from anisidine, aniline, ethyl aniline, butyl amine, morpholine and piperidine and used to synthesize homoleptic copper(II) dithiocarbamate complexes. The ligands and their corresponding complexes were characterized by conductivity measurement, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The ligands were further characterized using NMR spectroscopy. The electronic spectra of the complexes showed that the coordination geometries around the Cu2+ ion is four coordinate square planar. FTIR spectroscopic studies indicated that the dithiocarbamate ligands are bidentately coordinated to the copper ion through the sulfur atoms with the C-S stretching frequencies changing from two peaks in the ligands to single sharp peaks in the corresponding metal complexes. The complexes were used as single source precursors to synthesize copper sulfide nanoparticles. All the six complexes were thermolysed at 180 oC to prepare copper sulfide nanoparticles and three of them were further thermolysed at 120 oC to study the effects of temperature on size and shape of the nanoparticles. All the nanoparticles were characterized with UV-Vis, PL, XRD, TEM, SEM and EDX. The optical properties of the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed that they are quantum confined with absorption band edges that are blue shifted compared to bulk CuS and all the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed narrow emission curves. The XRD diffraction patterns were indexed to the hexagonal covellite CuS crystalline phase with estimated particle sizes of 15.8-23.24 nm. These sizes are significantly different from the values, 3.02-98.94 nm obtained from TEM studies. The TEM images also showed nanoparticles with varied shapes with some agglomerations. SEM micrographs showed that the morphologies of the nanoparticles are mostly smooth surfaces and EDX spectra analyses confirmed the formation of the nanoparticles. Thermolysis of three of the complexes at 120 oC confirmed that temperature do affect the optical and structural properties of the CuS nanoparticles. Only three complexes soluble in DMSO were screened for their antimicrobial activity. Three complexes C1, C4 and C5 were screened against four fungi organisms, namely: Candida rugosa, Candida neoformans, Candida albicans and Trychophyton mucoides. All the compounds were promising as shown by the minimum inhibitory concentrations determined. C5 was the most active compound against all the organisms. They were also screened against four bacteria organisms and they were all active but not as they were against fungi organisms. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
- Authors: Botha, Nandipha Loveness https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8353-3512
- Date: 2015-01
- Subjects: Copper sulfide , Complex compounds , Nanoparticles
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/24283 , vital:62598
- Description: Six dithiocarbamate ligands were synthesized from anisidine, aniline, ethyl aniline, butyl amine, morpholine and piperidine and used to synthesize homoleptic copper(II) dithiocarbamate complexes. The ligands and their corresponding complexes were characterized by conductivity measurement, FTIR and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The ligands were further characterized using NMR spectroscopy. The electronic spectra of the complexes showed that the coordination geometries around the Cu2+ ion is four coordinate square planar. FTIR spectroscopic studies indicated that the dithiocarbamate ligands are bidentately coordinated to the copper ion through the sulfur atoms with the C-S stretching frequencies changing from two peaks in the ligands to single sharp peaks in the corresponding metal complexes. The complexes were used as single source precursors to synthesize copper sulfide nanoparticles. All the six complexes were thermolysed at 180 oC to prepare copper sulfide nanoparticles and three of them were further thermolysed at 120 oC to study the effects of temperature on size and shape of the nanoparticles. All the nanoparticles were characterized with UV-Vis, PL, XRD, TEM, SEM and EDX. The optical properties of the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed that they are quantum confined with absorption band edges that are blue shifted compared to bulk CuS and all the as-prepared CuS nanoparticles showed narrow emission curves. The XRD diffraction patterns were indexed to the hexagonal covellite CuS crystalline phase with estimated particle sizes of 15.8-23.24 nm. These sizes are significantly different from the values, 3.02-98.94 nm obtained from TEM studies. The TEM images also showed nanoparticles with varied shapes with some agglomerations. SEM micrographs showed that the morphologies of the nanoparticles are mostly smooth surfaces and EDX spectra analyses confirmed the formation of the nanoparticles. Thermolysis of three of the complexes at 120 oC confirmed that temperature do affect the optical and structural properties of the CuS nanoparticles. Only three complexes soluble in DMSO were screened for their antimicrobial activity. Three complexes C1, C4 and C5 were screened against four fungi organisms, namely: Candida rugosa, Candida neoformans, Candida albicans and Trychophyton mucoides. All the compounds were promising as shown by the minimum inhibitory concentrations determined. C5 was the most active compound against all the organisms. They were also screened against four bacteria organisms and they were all active but not as they were against fungi organisms. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Science and Agriculture, 2015
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015-01
Photophysicochemical and photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapeutic studies of novel phthalocyanines conjugated to silver nanoparticles
- Authors: Rapulenyane, Nomasonto
- Date: 2013 , 2013-06-10
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Escherichia coli , Nanoparticles , Silver , Zinc
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003912 , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Escherichia coli , Nanoparticles , Silver , Zinc
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis, characterization and the physicochemical properties of novel unsymmetrically substituted zinc phthalocyanines: namely tris{11,19, 27-(1,2- diethylaminoethylthiol)-2-(captopril) phthalocyanine Zn ((ZnMCapPc (1.5)), hexakis{8,11,16,19,42,27-(octylthio)-1-(4-phenoxycarboxy) phthalocyanine} Zn (ZnMPCPc(1.7)) and Tris {11, 19, 27-(1,2-diethylaminoethylthiol)-1,2(caffeic acid) phthalocyanine} Zn ((ZnMCafPc (1.3)). Symmetrically substituted counterparts (tetrakis(diethylamino)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.8), octakis(octylthio)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.9) and tetrakis (carboxyphenoxy)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.10) complexes) were also synthesized for comparison of the photophysicochemical properties and to investigate the effect of the substituents on the low symmetry Pcs. The complexes were successfully characterized by IR, NMR, mass spectral and elemental analyses. All the complexes showed the ability to produce singlet oxygen, while the highest triplet quantum yields were obtained for 1.7, 1.5 and 3.9 (0.80, 0.65 and 0.62 respectively and the lowest were obtained for 1.3 and 3.10 (0.57 and 0.47 respectively). High triplet lifetimes (109-286 μs) were also obtained for all complexes, with 1.7 being the highest (286 μs) which also corresponds to its triplet and singlet quantum yields (0.80 and 0.77 respectively). The photosensitizing properties of low symmetry derivatives, ZnMCapPc and ZnMCafPc were investigated by conjugating glutathione (GSH) capped silver nanoparticles (AgNP). The formation of the amide bond was confirmed by IR and UV-Vis spectroscopies. The photophysicochemical behaviour of the novel phthalocyanine-GSH-AgNP conjugates and the simple mixture of the Ag NPs with low the symmetry phthalocyanines were investigated. It was observed that upon conjugation of the phthalocyanines to the GSH-AgNPs, a blue shift in the Q band was induced. The triplet lifetimes and quantum yields improved upon conjugation as compared to the phthalocyanines (Pc) alone. Complex 1.5 triplet lifetimes increased from 109 to 148 and triplet quantum yield from 0.65 to 0.86 upon conjugation. Fluorescence lifetimes and quantum yields decreased for the conjugates compared to the phthalocyanines alone, due to the quenching caused by the Ag NPs. The antimicrobial activity of the zinc phthalocyanines (complexes 1.3 and 1.5) and their conjugates against Escherichia coli was investigated. Only 1.3 and 1.5 complexes were investigated because of the availability of the sample. In general phthalocyanines showed increase in antibacterial activity with the increase in phthalocyanines concentration in the presence and absence of light. The Pc complexes and their Ag NP conjugates showed an increase in antibacterial activity, due to the synergistic effect afforded by Ag NP and Pcs. Improved antibacterial properties were obtained upon irradiation. 1.5-AgNPs had the highest antibacterial activity compared to 1.3-AgNPs conjugate; these results are in agreement with the photophysical behaviour. This work demonstrates improved photophysicochemical properties of low symm
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
- Authors: Rapulenyane, Nomasonto
- Date: 2013 , 2013-06-10
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Escherichia coli , Nanoparticles , Silver , Zinc
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4291 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003912 , Phthalocyanines , Photochemistry , Photochemotherapy , Cancer -- Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Escherichia coli , Nanoparticles , Silver , Zinc
- Description: This work reports on the synthesis, characterization and the physicochemical properties of novel unsymmetrically substituted zinc phthalocyanines: namely tris{11,19, 27-(1,2- diethylaminoethylthiol)-2-(captopril) phthalocyanine Zn ((ZnMCapPc (1.5)), hexakis{8,11,16,19,42,27-(octylthio)-1-(4-phenoxycarboxy) phthalocyanine} Zn (ZnMPCPc(1.7)) and Tris {11, 19, 27-(1,2-diethylaminoethylthiol)-1,2(caffeic acid) phthalocyanine} Zn ((ZnMCafPc (1.3)). Symmetrically substituted counterparts (tetrakis(diethylamino)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.8), octakis(octylthio)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.9) and tetrakis (carboxyphenoxy)zinc phthalocyaninato (3.10) complexes) were also synthesized for comparison of the photophysicochemical properties and to investigate the effect of the substituents on the low symmetry Pcs. The complexes were successfully characterized by IR, NMR, mass spectral and elemental analyses. All the complexes showed the ability to produce singlet oxygen, while the highest triplet quantum yields were obtained for 1.7, 1.5 and 3.9 (0.80, 0.65 and 0.62 respectively and the lowest were obtained for 1.3 and 3.10 (0.57 and 0.47 respectively). High triplet lifetimes (109-286 μs) were also obtained for all complexes, with 1.7 being the highest (286 μs) which also corresponds to its triplet and singlet quantum yields (0.80 and 0.77 respectively). The photosensitizing properties of low symmetry derivatives, ZnMCapPc and ZnMCafPc were investigated by conjugating glutathione (GSH) capped silver nanoparticles (AgNP). The formation of the amide bond was confirmed by IR and UV-Vis spectroscopies. The photophysicochemical behaviour of the novel phthalocyanine-GSH-AgNP conjugates and the simple mixture of the Ag NPs with low the symmetry phthalocyanines were investigated. It was observed that upon conjugation of the phthalocyanines to the GSH-AgNPs, a blue shift in the Q band was induced. The triplet lifetimes and quantum yields improved upon conjugation as compared to the phthalocyanines (Pc) alone. Complex 1.5 triplet lifetimes increased from 109 to 148 and triplet quantum yield from 0.65 to 0.86 upon conjugation. Fluorescence lifetimes and quantum yields decreased for the conjugates compared to the phthalocyanines alone, due to the quenching caused by the Ag NPs. The antimicrobial activity of the zinc phthalocyanines (complexes 1.3 and 1.5) and their conjugates against Escherichia coli was investigated. Only 1.3 and 1.5 complexes were investigated because of the availability of the sample. In general phthalocyanines showed increase in antibacterial activity with the increase in phthalocyanines concentration in the presence and absence of light. The Pc complexes and their Ag NP conjugates showed an increase in antibacterial activity, due to the synergistic effect afforded by Ag NP and Pcs. Improved antibacterial properties were obtained upon irradiation. 1.5-AgNPs had the highest antibacterial activity compared to 1.3-AgNPs conjugate; these results are in agreement with the photophysical behaviour. This work demonstrates improved photophysicochemical properties of low symm
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2013
Comparative study of the effect of silver nanoparticles on the hexokinase activity from human and Trypanosoma brucei
- Authors: Mlozen, Madalitso Martin
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Silver , Glucokinase , Trypanosoma brucei , Drug resistance , African trypanosomiasis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4149 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017910
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mlozen, Madalitso Martin
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Nanoparticles , Silver , Glucokinase , Trypanosoma brucei , Drug resistance , African trypanosomiasis
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4149 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017910
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Phthalocyanine-nanoparticle conjugates supported on inorganic nanofibers as photocatalysts for the treatment of biological and organic pollutants as well as for hydrogen generation
- Authors: Mapukata, Sivuyisiwe
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanofibers , Nanoparticles , Zinc , Hydrogen , Organic water pollutants , Water Purification , Electrospinning , Photocatalysis , Photodegradation , Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192831 , vital:45268 , 10.21504/10962/192831
- Description: This thesis reports on the synthesis, photophysicochemical and photocatalytic properties of various zinc phthalocyanines (Pcs). For enhanced properties and catalyst support, the reported Pcs were conjugated to different nanoparticles (NPs) through chemisorption as well as amide bond formation to yield Pc-NP conjugates. For increased catalyst surface area and catalyst reusability, the Pcs and some of their conjugates were also supported on electrospun inorganic nanofibers i.e. SiO2, hematite (abbreviated Hem and has formula α-Fe2O3), ZnO and TiO2 nanofibers. The effect that the number of charges on a Pc has on its antimicrobial activities was evaluated by comparing the photoactivities of neutral, octacationic and hexadecacationic Pcs against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. The extent of enhancement of their antimicrobial activities upon conjugation (through chemisorption) to Ag NPs was also studied in solution and when supported on SiO2 nanofibers. The results showed that the hexadecacationic complex 3 possessed the best antimicrobial activity against all three microorganisms, in solution and when supported on the SiO2 nanofibers. Covalent conjugation of Pcs with carboxylic acid moieties (complexes 4-6) to amine functionalised NPs (Cys-Ag, NH2-Fe3O4 and Cys-Fe3O4@Ag) resulted in enhanced singlet oxygen generation and thus antibacterial efficiencies. Comparison of the photodegradation efficiencies of semiconductor nanofibers (hematite, ZnO and TiO2) when bare and when modified with a Pc (complex 6) were evaluated. Modification of the nanofibers with the Pc resulted in enhanced photoactivities for the nanofibers with the hematite nanofibers being the best. Modification of the hematite nanofibers with two different Pcs i.e. monosubstituted (complex 5) and an asymmetrical tetrasubstituted Pc (complex 6) showed that complex 6 better enhanced the activity of the nanofibers. Evaluation of the hydrogen generation efficiencies of the bare and modified TiO2 nanofibers calcined at different temperatures demonstrated that the anatase nanofibers calcined at 500 oC possessed the best catalytic efficiency. The efficiency of the TiO2 nanofibers was enhanced in the presence of the Co and Pd NPs as well as a Pc (complex 7), with the extent of enhancement being the greatest for the nanofibers modified with the Pd NPs. The reported findings therefore demonstrate the versatility of applications of Pcs for different water purification techniques when supported on different nanomaterials. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
- Authors: Mapukata, Sivuyisiwe
- Date: 2021-10-29
- Subjects: Phthalocyanines , Nanofibers , Nanoparticles , Zinc , Hydrogen , Organic water pollutants , Water Purification , Electrospinning , Photocatalysis , Photodegradation , Anti-infective agents
- Language: English
- Type: Doctoral theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/192831 , vital:45268 , 10.21504/10962/192831
- Description: This thesis reports on the synthesis, photophysicochemical and photocatalytic properties of various zinc phthalocyanines (Pcs). For enhanced properties and catalyst support, the reported Pcs were conjugated to different nanoparticles (NPs) through chemisorption as well as amide bond formation to yield Pc-NP conjugates. For increased catalyst surface area and catalyst reusability, the Pcs and some of their conjugates were also supported on electrospun inorganic nanofibers i.e. SiO2, hematite (abbreviated Hem and has formula α-Fe2O3), ZnO and TiO2 nanofibers. The effect that the number of charges on a Pc has on its antimicrobial activities was evaluated by comparing the photoactivities of neutral, octacationic and hexadecacationic Pcs against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. The extent of enhancement of their antimicrobial activities upon conjugation (through chemisorption) to Ag NPs was also studied in solution and when supported on SiO2 nanofibers. The results showed that the hexadecacationic complex 3 possessed the best antimicrobial activity against all three microorganisms, in solution and when supported on the SiO2 nanofibers. Covalent conjugation of Pcs with carboxylic acid moieties (complexes 4-6) to amine functionalised NPs (Cys-Ag, NH2-Fe3O4 and Cys-Fe3O4@Ag) resulted in enhanced singlet oxygen generation and thus antibacterial efficiencies. Comparison of the photodegradation efficiencies of semiconductor nanofibers (hematite, ZnO and TiO2) when bare and when modified with a Pc (complex 6) were evaluated. Modification of the nanofibers with the Pc resulted in enhanced photoactivities for the nanofibers with the hematite nanofibers being the best. Modification of the hematite nanofibers with two different Pcs i.e. monosubstituted (complex 5) and an asymmetrical tetrasubstituted Pc (complex 6) showed that complex 6 better enhanced the activity of the nanofibers. Evaluation of the hydrogen generation efficiencies of the bare and modified TiO2 nanofibers calcined at different temperatures demonstrated that the anatase nanofibers calcined at 500 oC possessed the best catalytic efficiency. The efficiency of the TiO2 nanofibers was enhanced in the presence of the Co and Pd NPs as well as a Pc (complex 7), with the extent of enhancement being the greatest for the nanofibers modified with the Pd NPs. The reported findings therefore demonstrate the versatility of applications of Pcs for different water purification techniques when supported on different nanomaterials. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Science, Chemistry, 2021
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2021-10-29
Investigating the enzymatic mechanism of platinum nanoparticle synthesis in sulfate-reducing bacteria
- Authors: Riddin, Tamsyn Louise
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Platinum , Nanoparticles , Sulfate-reducing bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004024 , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Sulfate-reducing bacteria
- Description: Efforts to discover an efficient yet environmentally friendly mode of metal nanoparticle (NP) synthesis are increasing rapidly. A ‘green’ route that avoids the high costs, toxic wastes and complicated protocols associated with chemical synthesis methods is therefore highly sought after. A biologically based protocol will provide the possibility of gaining control over the mechanism merely by manipulating the experimental conditions of the system. Given that the properties of nanoparticles are highly dependant on the morphology of the particles themselves, this mechanistic control will provide significant industrial advantages with regards to tailoring specific properties of the nanoparticles produced. The key objectives of this study were to: a) determine whether a consortium of sulfate-reducing bacteria was capable of platinum nanoparticle synthesis, b) elucidate the bioreductive, enzymatic mechanism responsible, and c) attempt to control the morphologies of the particles produced. A consortium of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), isolated from sewage sludge, was used in these investigations due to the advantages a consortium provides in comparison to pure cultures. The syntrophic relationships established within the constituent species not only prevent the growth of contaminant microbes, but increases the oxygen-tolerance of the system as a whole. The sulfate-reducing consortium was shown to possess an aerobic mechanism for Pt(IV) reduction which, though different from the anaerobic bioreductive mechanism previously identified in literature, did not require an exogenous electron donor. It was demonstrated that the Pt(IV) ion becomes reduced to Pt(0) via a two-cycle mechanism involving Pt(II) as the intermediate. Further investigation elucidated the reduction of Pt(IV) to Pt(II) to be dependant on a novel Pt(IV) reductase which becomes upregulated in the presence of Cu(II), while the reduction of Pt(II) to Pt(0) occurred by means of a periplasmic hydrogenase. To our knowledge, this is the first time a coupled mechanism for Pt(IV) reduction by micro-organisms has been proposed. A cell-free, crude protein solution from the consortium produced both geometric and irregular platinum nanoparticles. The wavelength of 334 nm was chosen as a nonquantitative indicator of Pt(0) nanoparticle formation over time. The optimum conditions for nanoparticle synthesis were pH 9.0, 65 ˚C and 0.75 mM Pt(IV) as H2PtCl6 salt. In the absence of a buffer a Pt(IV) concentration > 1 mM resulted in the precipitation of protein-nanoparticle bioconjugates, due to unfavourable acidic conditions. This demonstrated that the nanoparticles were binding to and becoming stabilised by general protein in the cell-free solution. Upon addition of a sodium-bicarbonate buffer, a general increase in Pt(IV) reduction to Pt(II) was observed. The addition of the buffer also resulted in an unexplained change in particle morphology and for this reason was not used in subsequent investigations. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was shown to compromise the reduction rate of the Pt(IV) ion by SRB cells. The presence of extracellular NP’s was suggested by the colour of the supernatant turning brown and the A334 increasing over time. Attempts to visualise the particles by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) resulted in an unexpected phenomenon where nanoparticles could be observed to form dynamically upon irradiation by the electron beam. Extended irradiation by the electron beam also resulted in structural changes of the particles occurring during observation. An increase in temperature was shown to increase the reduction rate which in turn resulted in particles decreasing in size. The starting pH was shown to have a significant effect on the reduction rate and particle morphology although specific trends could not be identified. In conclusion, the cell-soluble extract from the sulfate-reducing consortium investigated, is capable of Pt(0) nanoparticle synthesis. Precise control over the particle morphology was not attained although the mechanism was further clarified and optimal conditions for nanoparticle synthesis were determined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Riddin, Tamsyn Louise
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: Platinum , Nanoparticles , Sulfate-reducing bacteria
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:3965 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004024 , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Sulfate-reducing bacteria
- Description: Efforts to discover an efficient yet environmentally friendly mode of metal nanoparticle (NP) synthesis are increasing rapidly. A ‘green’ route that avoids the high costs, toxic wastes and complicated protocols associated with chemical synthesis methods is therefore highly sought after. A biologically based protocol will provide the possibility of gaining control over the mechanism merely by manipulating the experimental conditions of the system. Given that the properties of nanoparticles are highly dependant on the morphology of the particles themselves, this mechanistic control will provide significant industrial advantages with regards to tailoring specific properties of the nanoparticles produced. The key objectives of this study were to: a) determine whether a consortium of sulfate-reducing bacteria was capable of platinum nanoparticle synthesis, b) elucidate the bioreductive, enzymatic mechanism responsible, and c) attempt to control the morphologies of the particles produced. A consortium of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), isolated from sewage sludge, was used in these investigations due to the advantages a consortium provides in comparison to pure cultures. The syntrophic relationships established within the constituent species not only prevent the growth of contaminant microbes, but increases the oxygen-tolerance of the system as a whole. The sulfate-reducing consortium was shown to possess an aerobic mechanism for Pt(IV) reduction which, though different from the anaerobic bioreductive mechanism previously identified in literature, did not require an exogenous electron donor. It was demonstrated that the Pt(IV) ion becomes reduced to Pt(0) via a two-cycle mechanism involving Pt(II) as the intermediate. Further investigation elucidated the reduction of Pt(IV) to Pt(II) to be dependant on a novel Pt(IV) reductase which becomes upregulated in the presence of Cu(II), while the reduction of Pt(II) to Pt(0) occurred by means of a periplasmic hydrogenase. To our knowledge, this is the first time a coupled mechanism for Pt(IV) reduction by micro-organisms has been proposed. A cell-free, crude protein solution from the consortium produced both geometric and irregular platinum nanoparticles. The wavelength of 334 nm was chosen as a nonquantitative indicator of Pt(0) nanoparticle formation over time. The optimum conditions for nanoparticle synthesis were pH 9.0, 65 ˚C and 0.75 mM Pt(IV) as H2PtCl6 salt. In the absence of a buffer a Pt(IV) concentration > 1 mM resulted in the precipitation of protein-nanoparticle bioconjugates, due to unfavourable acidic conditions. This demonstrated that the nanoparticles were binding to and becoming stabilised by general protein in the cell-free solution. Upon addition of a sodium-bicarbonate buffer, a general increase in Pt(IV) reduction to Pt(II) was observed. The addition of the buffer also resulted in an unexplained change in particle morphology and for this reason was not used in subsequent investigations. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was shown to compromise the reduction rate of the Pt(IV) ion by SRB cells. The presence of extracellular NP’s was suggested by the colour of the supernatant turning brown and the A334 increasing over time. Attempts to visualise the particles by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) resulted in an unexpected phenomenon where nanoparticles could be observed to form dynamically upon irradiation by the electron beam. Extended irradiation by the electron beam also resulted in structural changes of the particles occurring during observation. An increase in temperature was shown to increase the reduction rate which in turn resulted in particles decreasing in size. The starting pH was shown to have a significant effect on the reduction rate and particle morphology although specific trends could not be identified. In conclusion, the cell-soluble extract from the sulfate-reducing consortium investigated, is capable of Pt(0) nanoparticle synthesis. Precise control over the particle morphology was not attained although the mechanism was further clarified and optimal conditions for nanoparticle synthesis were determined.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles and their role against human and Plasmodium falciparum leucine aminopeptidase
- Authors: Mnkandhla, Dumisani
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Silver , Nanoparticles , Plasmodium falciparum , Leucine aminopeptidase , Antimalarials , Nanotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017911
- Description: Antimalarial drug discovery remains a challenging endeavour as malaria parasites continue to develop resistance to drugs, including those which are currently the last line of defence against the disease. Plasmodium falciparum is the most virulent of the malaria parasites and it delivers its deadliest impact during the erythrocytic stages of the parasite’s life cycle; a stage characterised by elevated catabolism of haemoglobin and anabolism of parasite proteins. The present study investigates the use of nanotechnology in the form of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against P. falciparum leucine aminopeptidase (PfLAP), a validated biomedical target involved in haemoglobin metabolism. AgNPs were also tested against the human homolog cytosolic Homo sapiens leucine aminopeptidase (HsLAP) to ascertain their selective abilities. PfLAP and HsLAP were successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) cells. PfLAP showed optimal thermal stability at 25 °C and optimal pH stability at pH 8.0 with a Km of 42.7 mM towards leucine-p-nitroanilide (LpNA) and a Vmax of 59.9 μmol.ml⁻¹.min⁻¹. HsLAP was optimally stable at 37 °C and at pH 7.0 with a Km of 16.7 mM and a Vmax of 17.2 μmol.ml⁻¹.min⁻¹. Both enzymes exhibited optimal activity in the presence of 2 mM Mn²⁺. On interaction with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) stabilised AgNPs, both enzymes were inhibited to differing extents with PfLAP losing three fold of its catalytic efficiency relative to HsLAP. These results show the ability of AgNPs to selectively inhibit PfLAP whilst having much lesser effects on its human homolog. With the use of available targeting techniques, the present study shows the potential use of nanotechnology based approaches as “silver bullets” that can target PfLAP without adversely affecting the host. However further research needs to be conducted to better understand the mechanisms of AgNP action, drug targeting and the health and safety issues associated with nanotechnology use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Mnkandhla, Dumisani
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Silver , Nanoparticles , Plasmodium falciparum , Leucine aminopeptidase , Antimalarials , Nanotechnology
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4150 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017911
- Description: Antimalarial drug discovery remains a challenging endeavour as malaria parasites continue to develop resistance to drugs, including those which are currently the last line of defence against the disease. Plasmodium falciparum is the most virulent of the malaria parasites and it delivers its deadliest impact during the erythrocytic stages of the parasite’s life cycle; a stage characterised by elevated catabolism of haemoglobin and anabolism of parasite proteins. The present study investigates the use of nanotechnology in the form of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against P. falciparum leucine aminopeptidase (PfLAP), a validated biomedical target involved in haemoglobin metabolism. AgNPs were also tested against the human homolog cytosolic Homo sapiens leucine aminopeptidase (HsLAP) to ascertain their selective abilities. PfLAP and HsLAP were successfully expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) cells. PfLAP showed optimal thermal stability at 25 °C and optimal pH stability at pH 8.0 with a Km of 42.7 mM towards leucine-p-nitroanilide (LpNA) and a Vmax of 59.9 μmol.ml⁻¹.min⁻¹. HsLAP was optimally stable at 37 °C and at pH 7.0 with a Km of 16.7 mM and a Vmax of 17.2 μmol.ml⁻¹.min⁻¹. Both enzymes exhibited optimal activity in the presence of 2 mM Mn²⁺. On interaction with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) stabilised AgNPs, both enzymes were inhibited to differing extents with PfLAP losing three fold of its catalytic efficiency relative to HsLAP. These results show the ability of AgNPs to selectively inhibit PfLAP whilst having much lesser effects on its human homolog. With the use of available targeting techniques, the present study shows the potential use of nanotechnology based approaches as “silver bullets” that can target PfLAP without adversely affecting the host. However further research needs to be conducted to better understand the mechanisms of AgNP action, drug targeting and the health and safety issues associated with nanotechnology use.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy activities of porphyrin- and phthalocyanine-platinum nanoparticle conjugates
- Authors: Managa, Muthumuni Elizabeth
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Porphyrins , Phthalocyanines , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates , Electrospinning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4539 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017919
- Description: This work reports on the conjugation of differently shaped Pt nanoparticles (PtNPs) with ClGa(III) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (1) as well as chloro - (5,10,15,20-tetrakis (4- (4- carboxy phenycarbonoimidoyl) phenyl) porphyrinato) gallium(III) (2) The work also reports on platination of dihydroxosilicon octacarboxyphthalocyanine (OH)₂SiOCPc (3) to give dihydroxosilicontris(diaquaplatinum)octacarboxyphthalocyanine (OH)₂SiOCPc(Pt)₃ (4). The resulting conjugates were used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. The degree of photo-inactivation is dependent on concentration of the conjugates, light dose (fluence) and illumination time. The log reduction obtained for 1 when conjugated to cubic PtNPs was 4.64 log (which indicate 99.99 percent of the bacteria have been killed), which is much higher than 3.94 log unit for 1-hexagonal PtNPs and 3.31 log units for 1-unshaped PtNPs. Complex 2 conjugated to hexagonal PtNPs showed 18 nm red shift in the Soret band when compared to 2 alone. Complex 2 and 2-hexagonal PtNPs as well showed promising photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) activity against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans in solution where the log reduction obtained was 4.92, 3.76, and 3.95 respectively for 2-hexagonal PtNPs. The singlet oxygen quantum yields obtained were higher at 0.56 for 2-hexagonl PtNPs in DMF while that of 2 was 0.52 in the same solvent. This resulted in improved PACT activity for 2-hexagonal PtNPs compared to 2. Complex 4 showed slight blue shifting of the absorption spectrum when compared to complex 3 The antimicrobial activity of 4 were promising as the highest log reduction value was observed when compared to the porphyrin conjugates.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2015
- Authors: Managa, Muthumuni Elizabeth
- Date: 2015
- Subjects: Photochemotherapy , Anti-infective agents , Porphyrins , Phthalocyanines , Platinum , Nanoparticles , Bioconjugates , Electrospinning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:4539 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1017919
- Description: This work reports on the conjugation of differently shaped Pt nanoparticles (PtNPs) with ClGa(III) 5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (1) as well as chloro - (5,10,15,20-tetrakis (4- (4- carboxy phenycarbonoimidoyl) phenyl) porphyrinato) gallium(III) (2) The work also reports on platination of dihydroxosilicon octacarboxyphthalocyanine (OH)₂SiOCPc (3) to give dihydroxosilicontris(diaquaplatinum)octacarboxyphthalocyanine (OH)₂SiOCPc(Pt)₃ (4). The resulting conjugates were used for photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. The degree of photo-inactivation is dependent on concentration of the conjugates, light dose (fluence) and illumination time. The log reduction obtained for 1 when conjugated to cubic PtNPs was 4.64 log (which indicate 99.99 percent of the bacteria have been killed), which is much higher than 3.94 log unit for 1-hexagonal PtNPs and 3.31 log units for 1-unshaped PtNPs. Complex 2 conjugated to hexagonal PtNPs showed 18 nm red shift in the Soret band when compared to 2 alone. Complex 2 and 2-hexagonal PtNPs as well showed promising photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) activity against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans in solution where the log reduction obtained was 4.92, 3.76, and 3.95 respectively for 2-hexagonal PtNPs. The singlet oxygen quantum yields obtained were higher at 0.56 for 2-hexagonl PtNPs in DMF while that of 2 was 0.52 in the same solvent. This resulted in improved PACT activity for 2-hexagonal PtNPs compared to 2. Complex 4 showed slight blue shifting of the absorption spectrum when compared to complex 3 The antimicrobial activity of 4 were promising as the highest log reduction value was observed when compared to the porphyrin conjugates.
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- Date Issued: 2015