Medicine & Health
Nanoparticles and Cell Membranes: A Crucial Interaction for Future Medicine
Original Authors: Kariuki, Mirihana, Penman, Hung, Meftahi, Bryant, Ramsland, Voïtchovsky, Conn, Contini, Bryant, Christofferson, Elbourne
In the expansive realms of chemistry, physics, engineering, and biology, the interplay between nanomaterials and biological interfaces has emerged as a topic of profound interest. From advanced diagnostics to innovative therapeutic strategies and sophisticated drug delivery systems, the potential applications are vast and transformative. A fundamental prerequisite for the success of these nanomaterial-based solutions is their ability to engage with biological tissues—specifically, to make contact with, and often cross, the external membranes of cells or organisms. This critical interaction is what ultimately dictates whether a desired biological response is achieved. As lead author Kariuki notes in the paper, "As such, understanding nanoparticle (NP)-bio-membrane interactions is paramount to designing and optimising nanoparticle-based therapies and technologies for biological applications."
Historically, investigating these complex interactions within living organisms (in vivo) has presented significant challenges, primarily due to the intricacy involved with complete cellular environments. To overcome these hurdles, researchers have increasingly turned to model bio-membranes, which offer a more controlled and isolated system for study. These models, combined with a suite of in vitro experimental and theoretical techniques, enable scientists to dissect and pinpoint the underlying mechanisms by which nanoparticles interact at the bio-interface. This systematic approach is crucial for unravelling the fundamental principles that govern how nanomaterials behave in biological settings.
This comprehensive review aims to synthesize the current body of literature concerning the biophysical interactions between both inorganic and organic nanoparticles and bio-membrane interfaces, encompassing both living and synthetic systems. The article will delve into several critical factors influencing these interactions, including the specific composition of the membrane, the morphology and chemical properties of the nanoparticles, and the various forces at play between these two entities. By meticulously identifying these fundamental influences—with a particular focus on synthetic nanoparticles due to their growing clinical relevance—this work will lay the groundwork for the more effective design of novel biomedical agents, paving the way for groundbreaking future therapies.