Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026

14:53
In Situ Detection and Single Cell Quantification of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Nuclear Microprobe Analysis
Published on: February 3, 2018
Methods for isolation and identification of nanoparticle-containing subcellular compartments.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|April 3, 2013
Summary
Nanoparticle drug delivery enhances drug stability and bioavailability. A new method tracks nanoparticle distribution within cells to address safety concerns for nanodelivery systems.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems offer improved drug stability, bioavailability, and reduced dosing frequency.
- Key advantages include high carrier capacity across biological membranes and controlled drug release.
- Understanding the toxicological implications and cellular fate of nanocarriers is crucial for their successful application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and present a method for determining the subcellular distribution of nanoparticles.
- To identify organelles in direct contact with nanocarriers within targeted cells.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and identification of specific organelles.
- Analysis of organelle-nanoparticle interactions.
Main Results:
- The study details a novel methodology for assessing nanoparticle localization within cells.
- This method allows for the identification of cellular compartments interacting with nanodelivery systems.
Conclusions:
- The described method is essential for evaluating the safety and efficacy of nanoparticle drug delivery systems.
- Understanding subcellular distribution is key to addressing toxicological concerns and optimizing nanocarrier design.
Related Concept Videos
Subcellular Fractionation
The homogenate obtained after cell lysis contains various membrane-bound organelles that can be further separated into pure fractions by subcellular fractionation. These isolates are used to study specific cellular components, analyze localized protein activity, and are even employed in diagnostics. Fractionation is typically achieved using centrifugation methods, the most common being density-gradient and differential centrifugation.
Differential Centrifugation
Differential centrifugation is...
Differential Centrifugation
Differential centrifugation is...
Immunogold Electron Microscopy
Immunoelectron microscopy utilizes immunogold labeling of endogenous proteins with specific antibodies to detect and localize these proteins in cells and tissues. The procedure provides insights into the distribution and quantification of protein under different stimulation conditions offering clues about their functions. Conjugating highly electron-dense gold particles with primary or secondary antibodies allow antigen detection on and within cells, with high resolution and specificity.

