Abstract

Here, for the first time, we demonstrate formation of virus-like nanoparticles (VNPs) utilizing gold-coated iron oxide nanoparticles as cores and capsid protein of brome mosaic virus (BMV) or hepatitis B virus (HBV) as shells. Further, utilizing cryo-electron microscopy and single particle methods, we are able to show that the BMV coat on VNPs assembles into a structure very close to that of a native virion. This is a consequence of an optimal iron oxide NP size (∼11 nm) fitting the virus cavity and an ultrathin gold layer on the maghemite cores, which allows for utilization of SH-(CH2)11-(CH2-CH2-O)4-OCH2-COOH as capping molecules to provide sufficient stability, charge density, and small form factor. MRI studies show unique relaxivity ratios that diminish only slightly with gold coating. A virus protein coating of a magnetic core mimicking the wild-type virus makes these VNPs a versatile platform for biomedical applications.

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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.