Nanoparticles In Biological Matrices Research Articles

Sizing silver nanoparticles in biological matrices by spICP-MS

BackgroundAdvances in the characterization and determination of AgNPs in different matrices, investigations involving biological matrices such as urine, plasma, sweat, and saliva still need more studies for routine application. AimThe present study aimed to investigate silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) sizing in human matrices (blood plasma, sweat, urine, and saliva) by Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (spICP-MS). The influence of sample dilution, NPs concentration, storage time were studied. MethodsBlood, plasma, urine and sweat were collected from healthy volunteers aged 20–30 years. The samples were then diluted 1:20 (urine, saliva and plasma) and 1:10 (sweat) in an aqueous solution of AgNPs. After the dilutions, the samples were analyzed by spICP-MS. At the end of the analyzes, the samples were stored at room temperature (25 °C), and another at -5 °C to evaluate the stability of the AgNPs. ResultsHigher concentrations of AgNPs in solution caused interference of matrix compatibility due to Ag+ detection by spICP-MS. Storage time up to 144 h for AgNPs 2 µg L − 1 solutions in 1:20 diluted urine and water was suitable for AgNPs detection. Otherwise, AgNPs 2 µg L − 1 did not present a clear signal-background differentiation in a 1:20 plasma diluted solution after a storage time of 144 h. ConclusionThis study provided new knowledge for monitoring of AgNPs in biological samples, helping with the new regulations proposed by Environmental and Health Agencies.

Analytical Methods for Nanomaterial Determination in Biological Matrices.

Nanomaterials are materials in which at least one of the three dimensions ranges from 1 to 100 nm, according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Nanomaterials can be categorized according to various parameters, such as their source, their shape, and their origin. Their increasing use in industrial settings, everyday items, electronic devices, etc. poses an environmental and biological risk that needs to be assessed and appropriately addressed. The development of reliable analytical methods for both characterization and quantification of nanomaterials in various matrices is essential. This review summarized the recent trends in analytical methodologies for the characterization and determination of nanoparticles in biological matrices.

Recent trends in analysis of nanoparticles in biological matrices.

The need to assess the human and environmental risks of nanoparticles (NPs) has prompted an adaptation of existing techniques and the development of new ones. Nanoparticle analysis poses a great challenge as the analytical information has to consider both physical (e.g. size and shape) and chemical (e.g. elemental composition) state of the analyte. Furthermore, one has to contemplate the transformation of NPs during the sample preparation and provide sufficient information about the new species derived from such alteration. Traditional techniques commonly used for NP analysis such as microscopy and light scattering are still frequently used for NPs in simple matrices; however, they have limitations in the analysis of complex environmental and biological samples. On the other hand, recent improvements in data acquisition frequencies and reduction of settling time of ICP-MS brought inorganic mass spectrometry into the forefront of NPs analysis. However, with the increasing demand of analytical information related to NPs, emerging techniques such as enhanced darkfield hyperspectral imaging, nano-SIMS and mass cytometry are in their way to fill the gaps. This trend review presents and discusses the state-of-the-art analytical techniques and sample preparation methods for NP analysis in biological matrices. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Characterizing Nanoparticles in Biological Matrices: Tipping Points in Agglomeration State and Cellular Delivery In Vitro.

Understanding the delivered cellular dose of nanoparticles is imperative in nanomedicine and nanosafety, yet is known to be extremely complex because of multiple interactions between nanoparticles, their environment, and the cells. Here, we use 3-D reconstruction of agglomerates preserved by cryogenic snapshot sampling and imaged by electron microscopy to quantify the "bioavailable dose" that is presented at the cell surface and formed by the process of individual nanoparticle sequestration into agglomerates in the exposure media. Critically, using 20 and 40 nm carboxylated polystyrene-latex and 16 and 85 nm silicon dioxide nanoparticles, we show that abrupt, dose-dependent "tipping points" in agglomeration state can arise, subsequently affecting cellular delivery and increasing toxicity. These changes are triggered by shifts in the ratio of the total nanoparticle surface area to biomolecule abundance, with the switch to a highly agglomerated state effectively changing the test article midassay, challenging the dose-response paradigm for nanosafety experiments. By characterizing nanoparticle numbers per agglomerate, we show these tipping points can lead to the formation of extreme agglomeration states whereby 90% of an administered dose is contained and delivered to the cells by just the top 2% of the largest agglomerates. We thus demonstrate precise definition, description, and comparison of the nanoparticle dose formed in different experimental environments and show that this description is critical to understanding cellular delivery and toxicity. We further empirically "stress-test" the commonly used dynamic light scattering approach, establishing its limitations to present an analysis strategy that significantly improves the usefulness of this popular nanoparticle characterization technique.

An optimised spectrophotometric assay for convenient and accurate quantitation of intracellular iron from iron oxide nanoparticles

We report the development and optimisation of an assay for quantitating iron from iron oxide nanoparticles in biological matrices by using ferene-s, a chromogenic compound. The method is accurate, reliable and can be performed with basic equipment common to many laboratories making it convenient and inexpensive. The assay we have developed is suited for quantitation of iron in cell culture studies with iron oxide nanoparticles, which tend to manifest low levels of iron. The assay was validated with standard reference materials and with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to accurately measure iron concentrations ∼1 × 10−6 g in about 1 × 106 cells (∼1 × 10−12 g Fe per cell). The assay requires preparation and use of a working solution to which samples can be directly added without further processing. After overnight incubation, the absorbance can be measured with a standard UV/Vis spectrophotometer to provide iron concentration. Alternatively, for expedited processing, samples can be digested with concentrated nitric acid before addition to the working solution. Optimization studies demonstrated significant deviations accompany variable digestion times, highlighting the importance to ensure complete iron ion liberation from the nanoparticle or sample matrix to avoid underestimating iron concentration. When performed correctly, this method yields reliable iron ion concentration measurements to ∼2 × 10−6 M (1 × 10−7 g/ml sample).

Characterization of Magnetic Nanoparticles in Biological Matrices.

This Feature describes several methods for the characterization of magnetic nanoparticles in biological matrices such as cells and tissues. The Feature focuses on sample preparation and includes several case studies where multiple techniques were used in conjunction.

Dark field transmission electron microscopy as a tool for identifying inorganic nanoparticles in biological matrices.

Dark field transmission electron microscopy has been applied herein to visualize the interactions of inorganic nanomaterials with biological systems. This new application of a known technique addresses a deficiency in status quo visualization techniques. High resolution and low noise images can be acquired to locate and identify crystalline nanoparticles in complex biological matrices. Moreover, through the composition of multiple images taken at different angular beam tilts, it is possible to image a majority of nanoparticles present at a site in dark field mode. This facilitates clarity regarding the internalization of nanomaterials in cellular systems. In addition, comparing dark field images recorded at different angular tilts yields insight into the character of nanoparticle faceting.

ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma an evolving story

Human exposure to nanoparticles has increased considerably due to anthropogenic activities dominated by coal and diesel oil fuel combustion. Not only the inhalation of nanoparticles, which nowadays is considered to be the most significant via of exposure to nanomaterials, but also the gradually more employment of nanoparticles in products such as cosmetics, deodorants, textiles, or even food is broadening the exposure to those materials. Developing the previous applications will obviously require the use of analytical methodologies to analyse biological matrices in order to assess potential risks in their use and take appropriate corrective actions. This chapter describes a general overview of the most important analytical techniques for the analysis of nanoparticles in biological matrices.

Quantitative Determination of Silica Nanoparticles in Biological Matrices and Their Pharmacokinetics and Toxicokinetics in Rats

Quantitative Determination of Silica Nanoparticles in Biological Matrices and Their Pharmacokinetics and Toxicokinetics in Rats

Prospects for magnetic nanoparticles in systemic administration: synthesis and quantitative detection

Methods for the quantitative determination of magnetic nanoparticles in biological matrices, in the frame of biomedical applications, are required to evaluate the particles biodistribution after systemic administration. AC magnetic susceptibility measurements are an alternative method to quantify magnetic nanoparticles in tissues, being able to provide also information on the particle transformations over time and allowing the distinction of the particles from other endogenous species such as the ferritin iron cores. The protocol for particle quantification using AC magnetic susceptibility measurements is described in detail in this article. A summary of synthesis routes towards magnetic nanoparticles is also provided.

Determination of nanoparticles in biological matrices

Human exposure to nanoparticles has increased considerably due to anthropogenic activities dominated by coal and diesel oil fuel combustion. Not only the inhalation of nanoparticles, which nowadays is considered to be the most significant via of exposure to nanomaterials, but also the gradually more employment of nanoparticles in products such as cosmetics, deodorants, textiles, or even food is broadening the exposure to those materials. Developing the previous applications will obviously require the use of analytical methodologies to analyse biological matrices in order to assess potential risks in their use and take appropriate corrective actions. This chapter describes a general overview of the most important analytical techniques for the analysis of nanoparticles in biological matrices.

Quantitative measurement of Au and Fe in ferromagnetic nanoparticles with Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy using a polymer-based gel matrix

The medical applications of nanomaterials require substantial changes in the research and development stage, such as the introduction of new processes and methods, and adequate modifications of the national and international laws on the medical product registration. To accomplish this, proper parameterizations of nano-scaled products need to be developed and implemented, accompanied by suitable measuring methods. The introduction of metallic particles to medical practices requires the precise, quantitative evaluation of the production process and later quantification and characterization of the nanoparticles in biological matrices for the bioavailability and biodistribution evaluation. In order to address these issues we propose a method for the quantitative analysis of the metallic nanoparticles composition by Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). Au/Fe ferro-magnetic nanoparticles were used to evaluate the method applicability. Since the powder form of nanoparticles spatters upon laser ablation, first we had to develop fast, convenient and quantitative method for the nano-powdered sample preparation. The proposed method is based on the polymer gelation of nanopowders or their water suspensions. It has been shown that nanopowders compositional changes throughout the production process, along with their final characterization, can be reliable performed with LIBS technique. The quantitative values obtained were successfully correlated with those derived with ICP technique.