Nanoparticle–Cell Interaction: A Cell Mechanics Perspective

Abstract

Progress in the field of nanoparticles has enabled the rapid development of multiple products and technologies; however, some nanoparticles can pose both a threat to the environment and human health. To enable their safe implementation, a comprehensive knowledge of nanoparticles and their biological interactions is needed. In vitro and in vivo toxicity tests have been considered the gold standard to evaluate nanoparticle safety, but it is becoming necessary to understand the impact of nanosystems on cell mechanics. Here, the interaction between particles and cells, from the point of view of cell mechanics (i.e., bionanomechanics), is highlighted and put in perspective. Specifically, the ability of intracellular and extracellular nanoparticles to impair cell adhesion, cytoskeletal organization, stiffness, and migration are discussed. Furthermore, the development of cutting-edge, nanotechnology-driven tools based on the use of particles allowing the determination of cell mechanics is emphasized. These include traction force microscopy, colloidal probe atomic force microscopy, optical tweezers, magnetic manipulation, and particle tracking microrheology.

Future progress in the field of bionanomechanics is expected to broaden the general understanding in the field of micro- and nanoparticle–cell interactions. The influence of NPs on cell adhesion, cytoskeleton, cell stiffness, and migratory properties, as well as the application of particles to probe cell mechanics, including rheological properties and mechanotransduction pathways are reviewed.

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