Covalent chemical functionalization enhances the biodegradation of graphene oxide. (13th November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kurapati, Rajendra; Bonachera, Fanny; Russier, Julie; Sureshbabu, Adukamparai Rajukrishnan; Ménard-Moyon, Cécilia; Kostarelos, Kostas; Bianco, Alberto
• Is Part Of: 2D materials. Volume 5:Number 1(2018)
• Publication Date: 2017-11-13
• Subjects: carbon nanomaterials -- graphene oxide -- functionalization -- biodegradation -- horseradish peroxidase; Graphene -- Periodicals; Materials science -- Periodicals; Nanostructured materials -- Periodicals; 620.115
• DOI: 10.1088/2053-1583/aa8f0a
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2053-1583

Abstract

Abstract: Biodegradation of the graphene-based materials is an emerging issue due to their estimated widespread usage in different industries. Indeed, a few concerns have been raised about their biopersistence. Here, we propose the design of surface-functionalized graphene oxide (GO) with the capacity to degrade more effectively compared to unmodified GO using horseradish peroxidase (HRP). For this purpose, we have functionalized the surface of GO with two well-known substrates of HRP namely coumarin and catechol. The biodegradation of all conjugates has been followed by Raman, dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy. Molecular docking and gel electrophoresis have been carried out to gain more insights into the interaction between GO conjugates and HRP. Our studies have revealed better binding when GO is functionalized with coumarin or catechol compared to control GOs. All results prove that GO functionalized with coumarin and catechol moieties display a faster and more efficient biodegradation over GO.