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Updated: May 21, 2025

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Correlative Light- and Electron Microscopy Using Quantum Dot Nanoparticles
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High-Resolution Correlative Microscopy Approach for Nanobio Interface Studies of Nanoparticle-Induced Lung Epithelial
Rok Podlipec1,2, Luka Pirker1,3, Ana Krišelj1
1Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
ACS Nano
|May 9, 2025
Summary
Correlated light and electron microscopy revealed how titanium dioxide nanotubes trigger inflammation in lung cells. This study details nanoparticle interactions, DNA changes, and mineral accumulation, advancing nanotoxicology research.
Area of Science:
- Nanotoxicology
- Cellular Biology
- Advanced Microscopy
Background:
- Correlated light and electron microscopy (CLEM) is vital for life science imaging.
- Understanding nanoparticle interactions with lung tissue is crucial for nanotoxicology.
- Titanium dioxide nanotubes (TiO2 NTs) are known inflammatory agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the nanobio interface of TiO2 NTs with lung epithelial cells.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of cellular response to TiO2 NTs.
- To advance the understanding of nanoparticle-induced inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Integrated high-resolution imaging: FLIM, fHSI, SEM, HIM, and SR μXRF.
- Correlated light and electron microscopy (CLEM) approach.
- Morpho-functional assessment of cellular responses.
Main Results:
- Observed DNA, essential minerals, and iron accumulation.
- Identified cellular surface immobilization and fibrous structure formation.
- Confirmed immunomodulatory responses in lung epithelial cells.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates early cellular processes leading to inflammation from nanoparticle exposure.
- The integrated high-resolution imaging approach provides a framework for nanotoxicology research.
- Findings enhance understanding of nanoparticle toxicity and human health impacts.

