Surface modification of gallium nanomaterials with a metal-phenolic network for biomedical applications
Issued Date
2026-03-01
Resource Type
ISSN
13877003
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105025477527
Journal Title
Inorganic Chemistry Communications
Volume
185
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Inorganic Chemistry Communications Vol.185 (2026)
Suggested Citation
Govindaraj D., Chimphlee W., Wongprasert I., Sae-be A., Namporn T., Lertsathitphong P., Ruenraroengsak P., Nasongkla N., O'Mullane A.P., Lertanantawong B. Surface modification of gallium nanomaterials with a metal-phenolic network for biomedical applications. Inorganic Chemistry Communications Vol.185 (2026). doi:10.1016/j.inoche.2025.116044 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/114546
Title
Surface modification of gallium nanomaterials with a metal-phenolic network for biomedical applications
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Due to their low toxicity levels, gallium-based compounds have emerged as novel materials, in particular for potential biomedical applications. The synthesis of gallium nanoparticles (Ga NPs) through sustainable methods is also gaining significant attention as it eliminates the need for complex preparation methods and hazardous chemicals. In this study, we successfully synthesized two types of nanoparticles: gallium and gallium oxide hydroxide (GaOOH) nanoparticles from liquid gallium. This was followed by forming a metal-phenolic network (MPN) surface coating by utilizing tannic acid and ferric chloride in a simple and effective one-pot probe sonication method. This results in the formation of a core-shell structure with nanoparticles at the core surrounded by a robust metal-phenolic network shell. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence, upright fluorescence, and confocal microscopy were used to evaluate MPN formation. The network was found to enhance the fluorescence intensity as well as prolong the fluorescence quality, which is particularly advantageous for cell-targeting applications. Preliminary biological evaluation studies demonstrated promising biocompatibility, and all synthesized materials showed effective cellular uptake in Huh7 cells, which were distributed throughout the cytoplasm without specific organelle targeting. Furthermore, both types of Ga-MPN networks demonstrated excellent antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (MRSA) bacteria, highlighting their potential utility in biomedical fields.