Modelling the adsorption of proteins to nanoparticles at the solid-liquid interface

Hypothesis: We developed a geometrical model to determine the theoretical maximum number of pro -teins that can pack as a monolayer surrounding a spherical nanoparticle. We applied our new model to study the adsorption of receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to silica nanoparticles. Due to its abundance and extensive use in manufacturing, silica represents a reservoir where the virus can accumulate. It is therefore important to study the adsorption and the persistence of viral components on inanimate surfaces. Experiments: We used previously published datasets of nanoparticle-adsorbed proteins to validate the new model. We then used integrated experimental methods and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations to characterise binding of the RBD to silica nanoparticles and the effect of such binding on RBD structure. Findings: The new model showed excellent fit with existing datasets and, combined to new RBD-silica nanoparticles binding data, revealed a surface occupancy of 32% with respect to the maximum RBD pack-ing theoretically achievable. Up to 25% of RBD's secondary structures undergo conformational changes as a consequence of adsorption onto silica nanoparticles. Our findings will help developing a better understanding of the principles governing interaction of pro -teins with surfaces and can contribute to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2 through contaminated objects. (c) 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

A new geometrical model was developed to study the adsorption of proteins on nanoparticles, and findings showed a 32% surface occupancy of RBD on silica nanoparticles with 25% of RBD secondary structures undergoing conformational changes. These findings contribute to understanding protein-surface interactions and controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 through contaminated objects.