Polystyrene nanoparticles internalization in human gastric adenocarcinoma cells
Maurizio Forte1, Giuseppina Iachetta2, Margherita Tussellino2
1Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; National Laboratory on endocrine disruptors (INBB), Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati-Traverso," CNR, Naples, Italy.
Summary
Smaller polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) are taken up faster by gastric cells and trigger inflammatory responses, highlighting the need to consider nanoparticle size and concentration in drug delivery and risk assessment.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Cell Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly used in drug delivery and food additives.
- Understanding NP interactions with biological systems is crucial for safety and efficacy.
- Gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cells provide a model for studying NP uptake in the gastrointestinal tract.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the uptake kinetics of 44 nm (NP44) and 100 nm (NP100) unmodified polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) in AGS cells.
- To identify the endocytic mechanisms involved in PS-NP internalization.
- To assess the impact of PS-NPs on AGS cell viability, morphology, and gene expression related to cell cycle and inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Cellular uptake studies using NP44 and NP100 in AGS cells.
- Analysis of endocytic pathways (energy-dependent, clathrin-mediated).
- Cell viability assays, gene expression analysis (IL-6, IL-8), and morphological examination.
Main Results:
- NP44 demonstrated faster and more efficient cytoplasmic accumulation in AGS cells compared to NP100.
- Both NP sizes were internalized via an energy-dependent, clathrin-mediated endocytosis pathway.
- PS-NPs non-linearly affected cell viability, induced inflammatory gene expression (notably IL-6 and IL-8 by NP44), and altered cell morphology.
Conclusions:
- Nanoparticle size significantly influences uptake kinetics and cellular response in AGS cells.
- The findings underscore the importance of carefully considering NP size, concentration, and time for developing safe and effective nanomedicines.
- This research contributes to managing risks associated with nanoparticle use in biomedical and food applications.
