Catalytically Active Peptide-Gold Nanoparticle Conjugates: Prospecting for Artificial Enzymes

Abstract

The self-assembly of peptides onto the surface of gold nanoparticles has emerged as a promising strategy towards the creation of artificial enzymes. The resulting high local peptide density surrounding the nanoparticle leads to cooperative and synergistic effects, which result in rate accelerations and distinct catalytic properties compared to the unconjugated peptide. This Minireview summarizes contributions to and progress made in the field of catalytically active peptide-gold nanoparticle conjugates. The origin of distinct properties, as well as potential applications, are also discussed.

Keywords: artificial enzymes; catalysis; gold nanoparticles; peptides; self-assembly.