Synthesis and characterization of phospholipid-functionalized silver nanoparticles

Functionalizations of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by phospholipids (PLs) have been manifested well by means of covalent connection between AgNPs with PLs. After functionalization, the attached PLs can self-assemble into bilayer structures on the surfaces of AgNPs. TEM displays the images of pure AgNPs and functionalized AgNPs with certain thickness of the phospholipid bilayers, as a result of chemical connection existing in AgNPs-PL conjugates. UV–vis and IR spectra confirm the strong Ag–S interaction between silver and sulfur produced during the reactions. This new modification method for AgNPs offers a good opportunity to functionalize nanoparticles with biological activity.