Fluorinated latex particles used to make refractive index-matched colloidal gels

Fluorinated latex spheres, developed by Cambridge Bespoke Colloids, were functionalised with DNA via block-copolymer anchors. An example of use of such particles was reported by Zupkauskas et al. The main advantage of using these particles was the ability to refractive index-match them in water-based solutions, which most other latices do not offer. In addition, the azide surface coating made them very easily functionalisable with DNA via a strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition.