Influence of structure and properties of colloidal biomaterials on cellular uptake and cell functions

The molecular structure and physicochemical properties of nano- and colloidal materials have a big impact on their intracellular uptake and cell functions. Elucidation of the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of the colloidal materials has been recognized recently as one of the paramount prerequisites for their biomedical applications. In this review, the influence of important parameters of colloidal biomaterials such as size, shape, chemical and mechanical properties on cellular uptake and its pathways is summarized. The intracellular distribution and transportation of the colloidal particles are then correlated with their physiochemical properties. The impacts on cytotoxicity and cell functions are also discussed. Finally, more attention is suggested to be paid on the basic understanding of cellular uptake and subsequent influence on cells, which is of great significance for the function implementations and safer applications of nano- and colloidal materials.