Silver Nanoclusters: From Molecular Photophysics to Non-Invasive Strategies for Caries Arrest
Gustavo A. Pino
Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Centro Láser de Ciencias Moleculares. Fac. de Ciencias Químicas, Departamento de Fisicoquímica.
CONICET, Instituto de Investigaciones en Físico-Química de Córdoba (INFIQC).
Sub-nanometer silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) have emerged as disruptive materials due to their molecule-like electronic structure and photophysical behavior, making them attractive model systems for molecular-level spectroscopy as well as for emerging functional applications. In this contribution, we present a comprehensive study of AgNCs synthesized via electrochemical and photochemical routes, combining advanced spectroscopic techniques with theoretical modeling and their validation as therapeutic agents in dentistry.
A detailed photophysical characterization was performed using excitation–emission matrices (EEM), time-resolved emission spectroscopy (TRES), and complementary DFT/TDDFT calculations, enabling the deconvolution of overlapping spectral features in ligand-free AgNC mixtures and provided insight into the underlying radiative and non-radiative deactivation pathways.1
Beyond isolated clusters, we investigate the interaction of AgNCs with molecular and macromolecular environments. In particular, the binding to DNA oligonucleotides was analyzed through steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopy, revealing strong and specific interactions that modulate fluorescence response and enhance photostability by protecting the clusters from oxygen-induced quenching.2
Finally, from a translational perspective, the incorporation of AgNCs into polymeric matrices (PMAA) is explored as a route toward hybrid functional systems for non-invasive treatments for arresting dental caries. Interestingly, AgNCs-PMAA represent an aesthetic, biocompatible, and highly effective alternative to clinical standard silver diamine fluoride (SDF), positioning themselves as a cutting-edge therapeutic platform for the non-restorative treatment of dental caries.3-5
References
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2) M. Rodríguez-Cordero, J. P. Aranguren, R. A. Fernández, S. A. Dassie and G. A. Pino. J. Molec. Liq. 454, 129533 (2026)
3) G. F. Molina, M. B. Cabalén, J. P. Aranguren, S. D. Palma, G. A. Pino and M. Burrow. Sci. Report, 12, 15418 (2022)
4) M. B. Cabalén, G. F. Molina, V. Piscitelli, M. Rossa, J. P. Aranguren,S. D. Palma, G. A. Pino, M. Picca and M. Burrow. Sci. Report, 13, 21126 (2023)
5) G. F. Molina, M. B. Cabalen, J. P. Aranguren, G. A. Pino and M. F. Burrow. Frontiers in Oral Health, 5, 1408181 (2024)