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Liposome impaired the adhesion and spreading of HEK293 cells: an AFM study
Hua Jin1, Shuyuan Ma, Bing Song
1Institute for Advanced Study, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Gene transfer has been proven to be a promising approach for treatment of several diseases. The cytotoxicity of transfection reagents is one of the key factors for clinical applications. The cytotoxicity of liposome has been extensively studied. However, its effects on the adhesion and spreading of transformed cells are still unclear. In this study, the cytotoxic effects of liposome on cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential of HEK293 cells were first evaluated. Then, an atomic force microscope (AFM) was recruited to investigate the effects of liposome on the adhesion and spreading of HEK293 cells. AFM data indicated that liposome induced a significant decrease in number of cellular pseudopodia and cell-surface particles, in cell-surface roughness, and in average adhesion force of cell membranes. The AFM data implied that liposome impaired the adhesion and spreading of HEK293 cells.
Insights
Liposomes, used in gene transfer, were found to negatively impact cell adhesion and spreading. This study evaluated liposome cytotoxicity and its effects on HEK293 cell membrane properties using atomic force microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Cell Biology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Gene transfer is a promising therapeutic strategy.
- Transfection reagent cytotoxicity is critical for clinical use.
- Liposome effects on transformed cell adhesion and spreading remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate liposome cytotoxicity in HEK293 cells.
- To investigate liposome's impact on cell adhesion and spreading using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Main Methods:
- Cytotoxicity assays measuring cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential.
- Atomic force microscopy (AFM) to analyze cell membrane properties.
Main Results:
- Liposome exposure significantly reduced cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential.
- AFM revealed decreased cellular pseudopodia, cell-surface particles, and roughness.
- Average adhesion force of cell membranes was significantly reduced post-liposome treatment.
Conclusions:
- Liposomes exhibit cytotoxic effects on HEK293 cells.
- Liposomes impair the adhesion and spreading capabilities of HEK293 cells.
- Further research is needed to understand liposome-cell interactions for gene therapy applications.
