Long-Term Intracellular Tracking of Label-Free Nanoparticles in Live Cells and Tissues with Confocal Microscopy

The label-free imaging of inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) provides a powerful and versatile tool for studying interactions between NPs and biological systems. Without the need for exogenous labels or markers, it simply benefits from the differential scattering of visible photons between biomaterials and inorganic NPs. Validation experiments conducted on fixed and living cells in real-time, as well as mouse tissue sections following parenteral administration of NPs. Additionally, by incorporating reporter fluorophores and utilizing both reflectance and fluorescence imaging modalities, the method enables high-resolution multiplex imaging of cellular structures and NPs. Different sizes and concentrations of Au NPs are tested as for Ag, Fe₃O₄, and CeO₂ NPs, all with biological interest. Overall, the comprehensive study of NP imaging by confocal microscopy in reflectance mode provides valuable insights and tools for researchers interested in monitoring the nano-bio interactions.