Biological Imaging and Sensing with Multiresponsive Microgels

  • Qiang Matthew Zhang
  • , Wenda Wang
  • , Ya Qiong Su
  • , Emiel J.M. Hensen
  • , Michael J. Serpe

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

89 Scopus citations

Abstract

Multiresponsive spiropyran-modified poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-based microgels were synthesized and their response to temperature; UV, visible, and near-infrared radiation; pH; and Cu2+ was investigated. The responses were a result of the spiropyran groups undergoing a reversible isomerization/reaction from a neutral to a charged form. The isomerization process was investigated via experiment and theory. The two-photon excited fluorescence of the spiropyran-modified microgels was also characterized, and their ability to be used to image live cells was determined. Finally, optical devices (etalons) were fabricated using the spiropyran-modified microgels, and the ability of the devices to change color in response to the above-mentioned stimuli was also investigated. We found that the microgel's responsivity was retained in the etalon, which yielded color tunable devices and sensors. This investigation illustrates the versatility of pNIPAm-based microgels and microgel-based etalons and showcases the clear utility of such devices for remote actuation, color tunable optics, sensing, and remotely triggered drug delivery systems.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)259-265
Number of pages7
JournalChemistry of Materials
Volume28
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 12 Jan 2016
Externally publishedYes

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