Public Title Nanoparticles: Composition, Magnetic Properties, Method of Production, and Methods for Functionalizing with Organic Molecules Division Lead Inventor Andres, Ronald Public Description Paramagnetic microparticles that are functionalized with specific binding moieties are increasingly being used for cell separation due to the high efficiency, high cell viability, and low cost of this process. These same particles are also proposed for the use in various schemes for pathogen detection. This invention provides a novel magnetic particle that promises to have numerous applications in the fabrication of nanoelectric devices and in the manufacture of ferro-fluids. The particles have a high degree of magnetization and are electrically conductive. They may also be functionalized with a high variety of organic molecules that can impart colloidal stability or can electrically link the clusters to one another through the use of binding reactions of thiols and disulfides to these metallic surfaces. The particles are stable against oxidation and can be functionalized so that they are soluble in either organic solvents or water. Also, since the particles are nontoxic and nano-sized, they can move freely in the human circulatory system without harmful effects. Patent Status Public References Key Words Chemistry and Chemical Analysis Manager Karen White Email kfwhite@prf.org Telephone 765-588-3486 Fax 765-463-3486   Back to List