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Cerium oxide nanoparticles at the nano-bio interface: size-dependent cellular uptake
Sushant Singh1,2, Anh Ly3,4, Soumen Das1,5
1a Nanoscience Technology Center, University of Central Florida , Orlando , FL , USA.
Artificial Cells, Nanomedicine, and Biotechnology
|October 14, 2018
Summary
Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) show size-dependent cellular uptake. Smaller CNPs (3-5 nm) utilize passive uptake for potential nanovector applications, while larger ones are actively internalized.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Understanding nanoparticle-cell interactions is crucial for nanomedicine.
- Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) have potential biomedical applications.
- The influence of CNP size and morphology on cellular uptake requires detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of cerium oxide nanoparticle (CNP) size and morphology in cellular uptake and internalization.
- To evaluate the impact of CNPs on cell membrane elasticity.
- To determine the mechanisms of CNP internalization (passive vs. active).
Main Methods:
- Utilized Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to measure cell membrane elasticity (Young's Modulus).
- Tested CNPs of varying sizes and morphologies on CCL30 (squamous cell carcinoma) cells.
- Employed blocking agents for energy-dependent cellular internalization pathways.
Main Results:
- Higher CNP concentrations significantly altered Young's Modulus, indicating membrane disruption.
- Lower CNP concentrations showed minimal membrane disruption.
- Smaller CNPs (3-5 nm) were internalized via passive uptake, independent of energy pathways.
- Larger CNPs were unable to permeate the cell membrane, suggesting active internalization.
Conclusions:
- CNP size critically influences cellular uptake mechanisms.
- Smaller CNPs (3-5 nm) can passively enter cells, bypassing endosomal pathways.
- This passive uptake mechanism offers potential for using small CNPs as nanovectors for drug delivery directly into the cytoplasm.
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