Fig. 1: Dual opportunity of the bio-NC interface: proteins can be used for protecting NCs, and the surface ligands of NCs may interact with proteins.
From: Open questions on proteins interacting with nanoclusters

a Schematics of ligand protected metal NCs and proteins leading to the bio-NC interface. Dual role of the bio-NC interface: b proteins can be used as templates for protecting NCs and c surface ligands of NCs may be functionalized to present some specific interactions with proteins.