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Updated: May 4, 2026

Analyzing Cellular Internalization of Nanoparticles and Bacteria by Multi-spectral Imaging Flow Cytometry
Published on: June 8, 2012
In vitro analysis of nanoparticle uptake by macrophages using chemiluminescence
Sarah L Skoczen1, Timothy M Potter, Marina A Dobrovolskaia
1Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory, Advanced Technology Program, SAIC-Frederick, Inc., National Cancer Institute at Frederick, Frederick, MD, USA.
Abstract:
This chapter provides a protocol for qualitative evaluation of nanoparticle internalization by phagocytic cells such as macrophages. This protocol uses luminol chemiluminescence to detect nanoparticle uptake. This protocol provides a preliminary qualitative look at phagocytosis which should be confirmed by other techniques such as electron microscopy, confocal microscopy, or as applicable to a given nanoparticle sample.

