Emerging techniques in proteomics for probing nano-bio interactions

Nanoengineered particles that can facilitate drug formulation and improve specificity of delivery afford exciting opportunities for improved lesion-specific therapy. Understanding and controlling the nano-bio interactions of these materials is central to future developments in this area. Mass-spectrometry-based proteomics techniques, in conjunction with other emerging technologies, are enabling novel insights into the modulation of particle surfaces by biological fluids (formation of the protein corona) and subsequent particle-induced cellular responses. In this Perspective, we summarize important recent developments using proteomics-based techniques to understand nano-bio interactions and discuss the impact of such knowledge on improving particle design.