Probing the Selective Action of Cerium Oxide in Cancer and Normal Cells
EMSL Project ID
46400
Abstract
There is an imminent need to determine the mechanisms that define the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. Several nanomaterials show unique and perplexing characteristics in biological environment that requires rigorous characterization to develop fundamental understanding at the interface of biological and materials systems. Specifically we will work with Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNPs) that demonstrate unique selectivity in its redox reactions with free radicals at cellular environment in in-vitro conditions. On one hand CNPs show exceptional anti-oxidant properties when present in normal cells while on the other hand they show unique pro-oxidant behavior in cancer cells. In addition, the surface coating of biocompatible organic molecules such as dextran enhances this differential behavior of cerium oxide nanoparticles. We propose to understand this perplexing dual behavior of CNPs by a combination of characterization modalities available at EMSL, under the theme of Science of Interfacial Phenomenon, by studying the interaction of nanomaterials with biological systems. By comparing the extent and rate of cellular uptake and localization of cerium oxide nanoparticles in cancer and normal cells we will outline the cellular response of specific cell lines to the physico-chemical properties of CNPs. In addition we will develop an understanding of the role of surface functional groups in affecting the cellular uptake and redox properties of cerium oxide nanoparticles. Understanding the dual behavior of cerium oxide nanoparticles in cancer and normal cells would allow us to design innovative approaches for differential interaction of nanoparticles with various types of cancers.
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2011-11-07
End Date
2012-11-11
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members