Abstract

We report here on two new methods, which have the potential to use the advantages of optical spectroscopy (physiological environment, chemical specificity, non-intrusiveness, time resolution) to accede, in-vitro, to the formation of virus capsids, phase transitions and cellular transit, one particle at a time. The first approach is the encapsulation of nanoparticles of different sizes and surface chemistry inside virus capsids. The nanoparticle cores act as spectroscopic enhancers and templates with tunable surface properties for the virus self-assembly from protein subunits. The second approach is to use the optical near-field to trap single particles in a physiological fluid inside nanochannels lithographically patterned on a surface. These two approaches, combined, will open the way to real-time monitoring of virus formation and intracellular imaging using viruses as optical probes.

Latest Publications

Dragnea Research is at the forefront of multidisciplinary innovation, exploring the intersection of nanoscale optics, quantum photonics, physical virology, and bio-architected hybrid materials with 3D nanoscale order. Their latest publications highlight groundbreaking advancements in fields such as self-assembly, optics and spectroscopy, and the physical manipulation of virus-like particles (VLPs) for chemical imaging and surface modifications. Drawing from their expertise in using near-field scanning techniques and laser-induced effects, these works showcase how nanoscale phenomena can be harnessed for applications in material science, virology, and beyond. The accompanying visual mosaic underscores the diverse range of their research, from probing molecular dynamics to the development of 3D-ordered structures, all united by a commitment to pushing the boundaries of applied and theoretical science.