The Forgotten Innate Immune Cells: Unraveling Their Prospective Interactions with Nanomaterials

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nanomaterials possess unique properties driving innovation in medicine.
• Their interactions with the immune system are complex, influencing immune responses.
• Current research often overlooks specific innate immune cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of understudied innate immune cells (eosinophils, basophils, mast cells) in nanomaterial interactions.
• To provide insights into their function, available cell lines, and study techniques.
• To highlight relevant in vitro and in vivo models for studying these interactions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on nanomaterial-immune cell interactions.
• Analysis of studies involving phagocytic cells and pattern recognition receptors (PRRs).
• Identification of research gaps concerning eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells.

Main Results:

• Nanomaterials modulate immune cell activation, internalization, and microenvironment.
• Phagocytic cells (macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils) and NK cells are well-studied.
• Eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells represent a significant area for future research.

Conclusions:

• Further investigation into nanomaterial interactions with eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells is warranted.
• This research is essential for the safe and effective application of nanomaterials in medicine.
• Understanding these interactions will advance nanomedicine and immunology.