Differential near-infrared imaging of heterocysts using single-walled carbon nanotubes.

The internalization of near-infrared (NIR) optical nanoprobes in photosynthetic microbes can be exploited for applications ranging from energy conversion to biomolecule delivery. However, the intrinsic, species-dependent properties of microbial cell walls, including their surface charge density, composition, thickness, and elasticity, can severely impact nanoprobe uptake and affect the cellular response. An examination of the interaction of the optical nanoprobe in various species and its impact on cell viability is, therefore, imperative for the development of new imaging technologies.

Carbon nanotube uptake in cyanobacteria for near-infrared imaging and enhanced bioelectricity generation in living photovoltaics.

The distinctive properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have inspired the development of many novel applications in the field of cell nanobiotechnology. However, studies thus far have not explored the effect of SWCNT functionalization on transport across the cell walls of prokaryotes. We explore the uptake of SWCNTs in Gram-negative cyanobacteria and demonstrate a passive length-dependent and selective internalization of SWCNTs decorated with positively charged biomolecules.