PMMA Nanoparticles

PolyAn’s PMMA Nanobeads are available in different sizes between 100 nm and 500 nm. They are characterized by a narrow particle size distribution (see SEM image below) and an excellent batch-to-batch reproducibility. PMMA Nanobeads are non-toxic, and thus, suited for live cell applications.

PMMA Nanobeads are available with Carboxy and Aldehyde surface functionalization for immobilization of biomolecules (proteins, antibodies, peptides, oligonucleotides, etc.) as well as with Streptavidin-functionalized surface for the binding of biotinylated molecules. PolyAn can also offer plain (unmodified) beads as well as bioconjugation services for Neutravidin, antibodies, and a wide range of other biomolecules.

Applications

We offer a large range of different PMMA Nanobeads suitable for particle-based technologies, including:

Size and polymer

All Nanobeads are comprised of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Using PMMA ensures an excellent optical brilliance and low autofluorescence compared to other microparticle materials. The refractive index of 1.48 is close to the refractive index of cells (ca. 1.38). Our microparticles have a density of 1.19 g/cm³ and a glass transition temperature (Tg) of about 110°C. PolyAn uses a biocompatible grade of PMMA.

PMMA Nanobeads are available in distinct, monodisperse populations with (mean) diameters between 100 nm to 500 nm as illustrated below.

DLS measurement of differently sized PMMA Nanobeads.

Selected Publications

  • Schmidt, C, Borcherding, H., Thiele, T., Schedler, U., Werner, F., Rödiger, S.,  Roggenbuck, D., Schierack, P., Fluorescence-encoded Poly(methyl metharcylate) nanoparticles for a lateral flow assay detecting IgM autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis, 2021, Analytical Biochemistry, DOI:10.1016/j.ab.2021.114389

Contact

Please note, that PolyAn also produces customized nanoparticles which incorporate fluorophores for other spectral ranges. All PMMA Nanobeads are available in sizes between 100-500 nm. Custom modifications are available upon request. Please do not hesitate to contact us to get some of our PMMA-Nanobeads!

*Image courtesy of BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg