Nanoparticle surface functionality plays an important role in cellular uptake and can induce different cytotoxic responses. Designing nanoparticles with improved therapeutic efficacy requires a systematic understanding of their interaction with the cell membrane and subsequent transport into the cell. In this study, we have demonstrated that the subtle changes in the surface monolayer of gold nanoparticles can dictate its endocytic mechanisms, mostly involving dynamin, scavenger receptors, and lipid raft-dependent pathways. Moreover, different uptake mechanisms were observed in malignant and non-malignant cells for the same nanoparticle. Through the appropriate choice of nanoparticle surface functionality, endocytic mechanisms can be regulated to improve targeting specificity and minimize cytotoxicity.

Nanoparticle surface structure regulates cellular uptake mechanisms

244th National Meeting (2012)

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