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Fluorescent Labeling of Inulin-Based siRNA Delivery Nanocarriers: Implications for Stability and Biological
Carmela Mazzacano1, Gaia Scoppetta1, Giulia Auriemma1
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano 84084, Italy.
ACS Omega
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Fluorescent labeling of nanoparticles can alter their properties, affecting stability and siRNA delivery. Researchers found that the choice of fluorophore and labeling density critically impacts nanoparticle performance, necessitating careful validation for nanomedicine applications.
Area of Science:
- Nanomedicine
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Fluorescently labeled nanoparticles are widely used in nanomedicine.
- The impact of fluorescent probe conjugation on nanoparticle behavior is often overlooked.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how fluorophore chemistry and labeling density affect nanoparticle properties.
- To evaluate the influence of labeling on siRNA binding and cellular uptake.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized inulin-based nanoparticles functionalized with bPEI and PLA.
- Introduced two fluorophores (Cy7.5 and FITC) at varying densities.
- Analyzed colloidal stability, siRNA binding, and cellular uptake.
Main Results:
- Labeling altered nanoparticle size distribution and surface charge.
- High FITC density increased nanoparticle heterogeneity.
- Cy7.5 labeling preserved siRNA stability, while FITC reduced it at high densities.
- Cellular uptake showed serum-dependent siRNA displacement.
Conclusions:
- Fluorescent labeling is not a neutral modification for nanoparticles.
- Labeling strategies must be validated to prevent misinterpretation in nanomedicine studies.
- Careful consideration of fluorophore and density is crucial for reliable nanoparticle characterization.
