Turning Unpredictable Biomolecule Adsorption to Controlled Corona Formation: Focus on Carbon Nanomaterials

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biomaterials Science
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) possess unique properties for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
• CNMs interact with biological systems by adsorbing biomolecules, forming a protein corona in biofluids.
• This protein corona can unpredictably alter CNM function and biological outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review how intrinsic and acquired properties of CNMs influence protein corona formation.
• To discuss the biological and toxicological consequences of protein corona.
• To explore strategies for modifying protein corona composition and structure.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on carbon nanomaterials and protein corona.
• Analysis of factors affecting protein adsorption onto CNMs.
• Evaluation of strategies for protein corona engineering.

Main Results:

• CNM properties (e.g., size, surface chemistry) significantly impact protein corona characteristics.
• The protein corona affects CNM cellular uptake, biodistribution, and immune response.
• Surface modification and design strategies can modulate protein corona formation.

Conclusions:

• Understanding protein corona formation is crucial for optimizing CNMs in cancer nanomedicine.
• Tailoring the protein corona can enhance the efficacy and safety of CNM-based therapies.
• This knowledge facilitates the clinical translation of advanced nanomedicines.