The possibility of employing supramolecular interactions to solve theranostics challenges were discussed in this work. The possibility of utilizing supramolecular host–guest chemistry between β... Show moreThe possibility of employing supramolecular interactions to solve theranostics challenges were discussed in this work. The possibility of utilizing supramolecular host–guest chemistry between β-Cyclodextrin and Adamantane to drive cell functionalization and cell–cell interactions in an in vitro environment was explored; the resulting pre-targeting set-up was further tested in vivo for liver radioembolization procedures. Furthermore, the self-assembly properties of ferritin were investigated to make a step towards the creation of new chemical entities that can be applied in precision therapy. Show less
This PhD-thesis presents a study on micron-sized particles, so-called colloids. By controlling the chemical and physical properties of these particles, such as the interparticle interaction... Show moreThis PhD-thesis presents a study on micron-sized particles, so-called colloids. By controlling the chemical and physical properties of these particles, such as the interparticle interaction and the particles’ shape, colloids can act as building blocks that self-assembly into larger structures. This could lead to the development of materials with novel properties such as ‘smart’ materials with the ability to adapt their structure to the environment. In this thesis spherical colloids are used as a starting point to make complex colloidal building blocks and larger microstructures. Anisotropic particles were formed by introducing surface roughness, dents, protrusions and chemical functionalization on the particle surface. Complex structures were obtained by assembling and reconfiguring clusters of spheres. Here, a balance of several phenomena including, the interfacial and potential energy, entropy and geometric constraints, determined the final geometry of the assembled structure. The work also shows how anisotropic elongated particles distorted the hexagonal order in crystals of spheres, either locally or over long distances. These distortions are known to influence the optical, mechanical and electronic properties of colloidal crystals. The complex particles and assemblies made in this study are therefore an important step towards the development of materials with novel and adaptable properties. Show less
