Molecular interactions hold key to how nanoparticles behave in cells

(Nanowerk News) Nanoparticles show promise in solving a host of problems, from pinpointing medical diagnoses to developing alternative forms of energy and creating more durable materials. But scientists have yet to determine exactly how these tiny particles interact in their environment, whether inside humans or in the world at large, and if those interactions can be toxic.
In a recent study ("Cellular recognition and trafficking of amorphous silica nanoparticles by macrophage scavenger receptor A"), scientists at EMSL and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) discovered cellular interactions of nanoparticles at the molecular level that may lead to answers about how these particles impact living systems.
Nanoparticles (shown in red) co-localized and moved with Scavenger Receptor A (green), suggesting that this receptor may play a role in mediating the interaction and fate of these particles in the certain cells
Nanoparticles (shown in red) co-localized and moved with Scavenger Receptor A (green), suggesting that this receptor may play a role in mediating the interaction and fate of these particles in the certain cells.
Led by EMSL capability lead Galya Orr and PNNL's Brian Thrall, a team of scientists focused on identifying the underlying mechanisms that govern how nanoparticles with specific properties interact with cells. Using EMSL's time-lapse high-sensitivity fluorescence microscopy capability, the team studied amorphous silica nanoparticles in macrophages, part of the human immune system. The high-sensitivity microscope allowed them to track individual nanoparticles in real time as the particle entered a cell, how it interacted within the live cell, and its fate. They found that the nanoparticles tended to move together with a particular macrophage protein, Scavenger Receptor A, in the cell.
When the receptor was expressed in cells that normally do not express this protein, the cells became associated with more nanoparticles. When the expression of the receptor was inhibited in the macrophages, the cells became associated with a smaller number of nanoparticles. However, the receptor's mediation was mainly associated with individual nanoparticles. When nanoparticles agglomerated and became a larger mass, as they tend to do, only a smaller fraction was found associated with the receptor.
Studying the cellular interactions of nanoparticles, at the molecular level, showed the team that the particles can interact in unique ways compared to larger structures.
Scientific Impact: As scientists begin to understand the mechanisms and molecules that influence the cellular interactions of nanoparticles carrying specific physical and chemical properties, they can better predict how nanoparticles will impact biological systems.
Societal Impact: With a greater understanding of the cellular interactions and response to nanoparticles, government agencies and scientific associations can set realistic standards for how these particles can be used, safeguarding human health and the environment while speeding innovations in energy, medicine, and materials sciences.
Source: Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory