Entrap and release of Phe–Phe nanotubes in sol–gel derived silicate matrix: study through nanosilver interaction

After the discovery of the ability of dipeptide self-assembly, numerous research activities have been reported on Phe–Phe dipeptide based nano-materials. However, entrapping peptide nanotubes in a silicate matrix has not been carefully studied. This paper reports on self-assembled Phe–Phe nanotubes entrapped in a silicate matrix derived by a simple, and modified acid mediated sol–gel approach. Here, interaction of silver nanoparticles with regained nanotubes from the silicate matrix is reported. Mass spectrometry data showed the self-assembly of peptide monomers. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy studies have been used to examine the shapes and sizes of the nano-structures, and the results provide a promising method for trapping peptide based nanotubes. UV–Visible spectra suggest that there are some effects of silicate environment around Phe–Phe NTs on its absorbance. Density functional calculations showed the probable type of interaction between peptide and Ag atoms. This study can be useful for future applications, which are based on immobilization strategy for drug carrying and sensing.