Dextran‑coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles activate the MAPK pathway in human primary monocyte cells

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Immunology

Background:

• Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are increasingly used in biomedicine.
• Investigating the biocompatibility of SPIONs, particularly their interaction with the human immune system, is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the biological effects of dextran-coated SPIONs (Dex-SPIONs) on human primary monocyte cells.
• To understand the cellular mechanisms underlying the interaction between Dex-SPIONs and monocytes.

Main Methods:

• Treatment of human primary monocyte cells with Dex-SPIONs.
• Cellular uptake analysis (phagosomes, cytoplasm).
• Assessment of cell viability, apoptosis, and morphological changes (vacuoles, pseudopodia).
• Measurement of pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, TNF-α) and MAPK pathway activation (p38, JNK1, ERK).

Main Results:

• Dex-SPIONs were found within monocytes but did not affect cell viability or induce apoptosis.
• Morphological changes suggested potential monocyte activation.
• Increased expression of IL-1β and TNF-α was observed.
• MAPK pathway activation (p38, JNK1, ERK) was enhanced, and inhibitors reduced cytokine production.

Conclusions:

• Dex-SPIONs can activate human monocyte cells.
• The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway plays a role in Dex-SPION-induced monocyte activation and subsequent cytokine release.