Molecular Recognition Force Spectroscopy for Probing Cell-Targeted Nanoparticles In Vitro

In the development and design of cell-targeted nanoparticle-based systems, the density of targeting moieties plays a fundamental role in allowing maximal cell-specific interaction. Here, we describe the use of molecular recognition force spectroscopy as a valuable tool for the screening, characterization, and optimization of targeted nanoparticles toward attaining cell-specific interaction. By tailoring the density of targeting moieties at the nanoparticle surface, one can correlate the unbinding event probability between nanoparticles tethered to an atomic force microscopy tip and cells to the nanoparticle vectoring capacity. This approach allows for a rapid and cost-effective design of targeted nanomedicines, reducing the need for long and tedious in vitro tests.