Designing quantum rod morphology and surface chemistry for optimum bioluminescence resonance energy transfer

We have investigated the role that quantum rod (QR) morphology, composition, and surface chemistry play in resonance energy transfer phenomena. By fine-tuning the synthetic conditions, it is possible to tailor the aspect ratio of CdSe/CdS core-shell QRs from 2-8. The aspect ratio, as well as initial core diameter, determines the spectral properties of the QR, and the emission was tuned between 600-700 nm. These QR were then studied in resonance energy transfer studies with molecular fluorophores, fluorescent proteins, and bioluminescent enzymes. In order to accomplish functionalization, the biomaterials were attached to the QR interface via the N-terminus histag. The results indicate that the QR are ideal candidates for resonance energy transfer, due in large part to the increased stoichiometry provided by the rod morphology, and better spectral matching. The results also indicate that core location within the QR is particularly important when interpreting the energy transfer.