Augmentation of PCR efficiency using highly thermostable gold nanoparticles synthesized from a thermophilic bacterium, Geobacillus stearothermophilus

Biogenic gold nanoparticles were synthesized from the Geobacillus stearothermophilus cell-free extract. These nanoparticles were characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy, FTIR, TEM, and XRD. The gold nanoparticles showed an absorption maximum at 522 nm. The TEM micrograph revealed the formation of monodispersed particles. The high degree of stability of the nanoparticle solution could be attributed to the secretion of certain capping proteins by the bacterium in the reaction mixture which was confirmed by the FTIR and UV–vis spectrometric analyses. The heat transfer property of the gold nanoparticles in aqueous solution has been explored in the current study for augmenting the PCR efficiency. The highly thermostable biogenic gold nanoparticles effectively increased the yield, product specificity besides reducing the reaction time of the PCR.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Highly thermostable gold nanoparticles synthesized from Geobacillus steriothermophilus. ► Exhibited high stability over a wide pH range (6–12) and at higher temperature. ► Effectively enhanced the yield, product specificity, reduced the reaction time of PCR. ► Efficient heat transfer and uniform dispersion in aqueous solution play major role. ► Effectively augmented PCR efficiency compared to reactions without nanoparticles.