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High Resolution Physical Characterization of Single Metallic Nanoparticles
Published on: June 28, 2019
Conformational changes in human plasma proteins induced by metal oxide nanoparticles
Rosana Simón-Vázquez1, Tamara Lozano-Fernández1, Mercedes Peleteiro-Olmedo1
1Immunology, Biomedical Research Center (CINBIO) and Institute of Biomedical Research of Vigo (IBIV), University of Vigo, Campus Lagoas Marcosende, 36310 Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain.
Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
|October 8, 2013
Summary
Metal oxide nanoparticles interact differently with human plasma proteins. Zinc oxide nanoparticles significantly alter protein structure and function, while others show minimal effects, depending on pH and nanoparticle type.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Protein Chemistry
Background:
- Nanoparticle (Np) interactions with biological fluids can alter protein structure and function.
- Metal oxide nanoparticles (Nps) are widely used, necessitating understanding their biological interactions.
- Protein conformational changes can trigger cellular events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the interaction between four metal oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, TiO2, CeO2, Al2O3) and key human plasma proteins (albumin, fibrinogen, globulins).
- To investigate the influence of pH on these interactions.
- To elucidate the specific conformational changes induced in proteins.
Main Methods:
- Fluorescence spectroscopy
- Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy
- Analysis of protein thermal stability and clotting activity
Main Results:
- Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles showed strong interaction, decreasing thermal stability and interfering with fibrinogen clotting.
- Titanium dioxide (TiO2) and cerium oxide (CeO2) nanoparticles had lower effects.
- Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles exhibited minimal interaction at physiological pH. Albumin's α-helices transformed into β-sheet structures, particularly influenced by Np surface charge and pH.
Conclusions:
- The interaction between metal oxide nanoparticles and plasma proteins is Np-specific and pH-dependent.
- ZnO nanoparticles pose a higher risk of altering protein function compared to TiO2, CeO2, and Al2O3.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe nanoparticle application in biological systems.
