Framing the nano-biointeractions by proteomics

Abstract

Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the interactions between nanomaterials and living systems is fundamental for providing more effective products for nanomedicine and drug delivery. Controlling the response of cells/bacteria (such as activation of inflammatory processes or apoptosis/necrosis in tumor cells or pathogenic bacteria) by tuning specific properties of the nanomaterials is ultimately the challenging goal. Notably, this may also provide crucial information in the assessment of any toxic risks induced by nanoparticles on humans. However, in studying the nano-biointeractions, it is imperative to take into account the dynamic evolutions of nanoparticles in the biological environments (in terms of protein corona formation, size and charge changes) in synergy with the dynamic events occurring in cells, including signal transduction, metabolic processes, homeostasis and membrane trafficking. In this context, we discuss the impact of analytical technologies, especially in the field of proteomics, which can provide major insights into the processes affecting the NPs surface as well as the cells and bacteria functionalities. In particular, we show that a precise control of the chemical-physical characteristics of the interacting nanoparticles or nanostructures may impact the cells by inducing changes in the proteomic profiles with direct consequences on their viability. © 2012 SPIE.