REU/RET Project

Lesley W. Chow
University: University of Florida
Mentor in UCF: Dr. B. Rzigalinski – Molecular and Microbiology

Nanobiology—Introducing Engineering Concepts to the Cell

Adding oxide nanoparticles to cells in culture is a novel concept essential for advancing the knowledge of fundamental theories in nanobiology. Oxide nanoparticles at 20 nm were added to rat brain cell cultures, causing the cells to survive approximately 3 times longer than cells without nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are believed to reduce the intracellular free radicals that damage cell proteins, lipids, and DNA by supplying oxygen vacancy sites. We tested if the nanoparticles were entering the cell and determined their location. TEM analysis showed particles larger than 50 nm in diameter in the same focal place as the cellular organelles and associating with the cytoskeletal structures. The nanoparticles appeared primarily inside or in close proximity to mitochondria and vacuoles, known producers of intracellular free radicals. Although the mechanisms for entering the cells or cellular organelles are unknown, TEM images of nanoparticle interaction with cytoplasmic structures were shown. The increased size of the nanoparticles may result from the particles agglomerating or being coated with proteins, making passage through membrane channels difficult. Further studies in the functionality of the nanoparticles and confirmation of their entrance to the cells and cell organelles are necessary to verify oxide nanoparticles act as free radical scavengers.