Cellular Activity Modulation Mediated by Near Infrared-Irradiated Polydopamine Nanoparticles: In Vitro and Ex Vivo...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Precise control of cell activity is vital for understanding and treating disorders.
• Nanotechnology offers photoresponsive nanoparticles for noninvasive cell modulation.
• Polydopamine nanoparticles (PDNPs) are explored for remote cell activity control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a method using PDNPs and near-infrared (NIR) laser stimulation to modulate neuron and myotube activity.
• To investigate the antioxidant and developmental effects of PDNPs.
• To evaluate the ex vivo efficacy in Drosophila melanogaster.

Main Methods:

• Utilized polydopamine nanoparticles (PDNPs) for near-infrared (NIR) laser stimulation.
• Employed confocal microscopy to observe cellular responses (calcium transients, neurotransmitter release).
• Assessed PDNP antioxidant properties and conducted proteomic analysis; tested ex vivo on Drosophila melanogaster.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated thermal activation of individual neuron-like cells and myotubes via NIR laser and PDNPs.
• Observed calcium transients, acetylcholine release, and muscle contraction.
• PDNPs exhibited antioxidant properties and positively influenced neuronal plasticity and muscle growth.

Conclusions:

• PDNPs provide a precise, noninvasive tool for remote cell stimulation.
• The study highlights PDNPs' potential in supporting neural and musculoskeletal development.
• Ex vivo validation in Drosophila melanogaster confirms the approach's applicability.