Mechanism of uptake and trafficking of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles into human tumor and normal (diploid) cells

Project leader: Alena Gábelová
Project duration: 2013 - 2016

Magnetite nanoparticles are biocompatible and physiologically well tolerated therefore they are promising nanovectors for targeted delivery. Moreover, the superparamagnetic properties of MNPs are eligible for delivery of the drug-loaded MNPs in the target site via an external magnetic field. Delivery of drug into the cytosol of cells is essential for targeted therapy. A critical barrier in this process is the cytoplasmatic membrane. The nutrient uptake and intracellular communication is selectively regulated via specific pathways of endocytosis. The same routes of entry into cells utilize also MNPs. The process of endocytosis affects the physic-chemical properties of MNPs (particle size, coating, particle charge) and the origin of cells (endothelial cells, fibroblasts). The study of mechanism(s) of MNPs uptake into cells and factors which influence this process is crucial for development adequate nanocarriers for targeted delivery.

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