Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 2, 2025
08:04
Preparation of Functional Silica Using a Bioinspired Method
Published on: August 1, 2018
17.5K
Organosilicon uptake by biological membranes
Pepijn Beekman1,2, Agustin Enciso-Martinez3, Sidharam P Pujari2
1Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology & TechMed Center, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
Communications Biology
|June 10, 2021
Summary
Organosilicon compounds interact with cell membranes, contrary to common assumptions. These widely used materials are retained by cell membranes, highlighting potential biological implications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Organosilicon compounds are prevalent in consumer products like food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
- Their widespread use is based on the assumption of minimal systemic absorption.
- Increasing applications as plastic alternatives and in biotechnology necessitate understanding their biological interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interactions of specific organosilicon compounds with cell membranes.
- To characterize the retention of these compounds within or on cell membranes.
- To assess the potential biological impact of silicone leaching.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a range of analytical techniques.
- Studied interactions with cell membranes and their models.
- Investigated simeticone, hexamethyldisilazane, and polydimethylsiloxane.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated retention of organosilicon compounds in or on cell membranes.
- Characterized the interaction mechanisms between organosilicon compounds and membrane models.
- Provided evidence against the assumption of non-absorption.
Conclusions:
- Organosilicon compounds interact with and are retained by cell membranes.
- The assumption of non-systemic absorption may be incorrect.
- Further scrutiny of silicone leaching in biological systems and biotechnology is warranted.
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