Synthesis of bioluminescent gold nanoparticle-luciferase hybrid systems for technological applications.

Bioluminescent gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized in situ using dithiol-terminated polyethylene glycol (PEG(SH)) as reducer and stabilizing agents. Hybrid Au/FO nanoparticles were also produced in a variation of synthesis, and both types of nanostructures had the polymer capping replaced by L-cysteine (Cys). The four types of nanoparticles, PEG(SH)AuNPs, PEG(SH)Au/FONPs, CysAuNPs, and CysAu/FONPs were associated with purified recombinant Pyrearinus termitilluminans green emitting click beetle luciferase (PyLuc) and Phrixotrix hirtus (RELuc) red-emitting railroad worm luciferase.