Nanometers are one billionth of a meter, a metric typically used to measure molecules and scientific building blocks not visible to the human eye. Materials of tens and/or several hundred nanometers in diameter have unique properties, and thus have been widely used in diagnosing and treating various human diseases. One major challenge to use these nano-sized materials is how to deliver them into cells and reach their sites of action.
Traditional methods include linking them to short fragments of proteins called peptides, which are structural components of cells and tissues, hormones, toxins, antibiotics and enzymes. These peptides, by interacting with cells, will lead nanomaterial into cells. The impact of these interactions on other cellular activities remains poorly understood, plus this peptide coupling introduces additional complexity in nanomaterial manufacturing, and may change their functionality as well.
In a study published in Nature Communications , University of Minnesota researchers discovered a novel cellular process that can engulf nanomaterial without direct peptide functionalization, and its activity is regulated by Cysteine surrounding the cells. The research team termed this cellular process of engulfing bystander NPs as 'bystander uptake.'
"By simply mixing two types of nano-sized material, we discover a novel cellular process that offers an easy solution for nanomaterial entry into cells," said Hongbo Pang , corresponding author, an assistant professor in the College of Pharmacy and a member of the Masonic Cancer Center. "Moreover, it opens up a new avenue of cell biology that interconnects several fundamental elements of living cells. Further understanding of this process will aid in both cell biology and nanotechnology development."
The study revealed the following unique properties:
These phenomena have been validated with a wide variety of cells, nanoparticles (aka nanomaterials), and under various physiological conditions.
The study findings included:
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This study was funded by NIBIB (National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering), NCI (National Cancer Institute) and the BICI (Beijing Institute of Collaborative Innovation).
About the College of Pharmacy
Founded in 1892, the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy is the only pharmacy school in Minnesota, with campuses in the Twin Cities and in Duluth. The College of Pharmacy improves health through innovative education, pioneering research and interdisciplinary practice development that attends to the diverse needs of the people of Minnesota and the world.
Nature Communications