Influence of laser parameters on nanoparticle-induced membrane permeabilization

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Cell Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Light-absorbing nanoparticles, when heated by laser pulses, can temporarily enhance cell membrane permeability.
• This phenomenon offers potential for intracellular delivery of molecules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate membrane permeability changes induced by laser-heated nanoparticles.
• To investigate the efficiency of delivering molecules of various sizes into living cells.

Main Methods:

• Utilized flow cytometry to assess membrane permeability using propidium iodide and fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC-D).
• Investigated the impact of laser parameters (pulse duration, exposure, mode) on transfection efficiency.
• Tested the delivery of fluorescently labeled antibodies into permeabilized cells.

Main Results:

• Achieved reliable membrane permeabilization for 10-kDa FITC-D using both nano- and picosecond laser irradiation.
• Demonstrated successful penetration of fluorescently labeled antibodies into living cells.
• Observed positive staining for a 150-kDa IgG antibody in over 50% of treated cells.

Conclusions:

• Laser-induced nanoparticle heating provides a reliable method for transiently increasing cell membrane permeability.
• This technique facilitates the targeted delivery of larger exogenous molecules, including antibodies, into living cells.
• The approach shows significant potential for applications in cellular delivery and biotechnology.