Single domain antibody templated nanoparticle resistors for sensing

The diversity of biomolecules enables materials to be synthesized at ambient conditions into complex shapes and structures while affording improved control over nanoparticle synthesis, structures, properties, and functionality. Also, biomolecules can impart recognition and sensing capabilities to metal nanoparticles. Here, llama single domain antibodies selected towards the β-subunit of cholera toxin were used to template the synthesis of gold nanoparticles and subsequently assembled onto electrodes via dielectrophoresis. These assemblies were then tested for the detection of cholera toxin via changes in the conductance of antibody coated gold nanoparticles.