Apoferritin as a nanoreactor for preparing metallic nanoparticles

Metal (Cu, Co, Ni and Ag) nanoparticles have been prepared within the apoferritin cavity using M-II-loaded apoferritin as a chemically and spatially confined environment for their construction. The protein shell prevents bulk aggregation of the metal particles,, rendering them water soluble. Optical Ag and Cu nanoparticles showed characteristic surface plasmon resonance whereas magnetic Co and Ni particles confirmed the expected superparamagnetic behavior. To cite this article: N. Galvez et al., C. R. Chimie 11 (2008). (C) 2008 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.