Nanotoxicology:  Interactions  between  nanoparticles  and  cells  

Marcelo  Bispo  de  Jesus  

Nano-­‐Cell  Interactions  Lab.,  Biochemistry  Department,  Biology  Institute,  Campinas  University,  Campinas,  SP,  Brasil  

 

 

Nanomaterials  are  released  in  the  atmosphere  from  natural  events  (e.g.  volcano  eruption)  even  before   life  started  on  Earth.  Recently,   the  advances   in  material  manipulation   increased   the  variety  and   the  amount  of   these  nanomaterials  into  the  atmosphere.  Eventually,  these  nanomaterials  will  interact  with  animals,  including  humans,  and  regarding  their  nano   scale   properties;   they   will   reach   the   cellular   environment.   Eukaryotic   cells,   via   endocytosis,   can   internalize  nanomaterials  and  inside  the  cells  they  can  trigger  different  cellular  responses  (cell-­‐cycle  and  proliferation  irregularities,  inflammatory   cytokine   production,   diminution   in   mitochondrial   function,   activation   of   cell   signaling   pathways,  autophagy,  apoptosis,  and  cell  death).  Understanding  the  molecular  interaction  of  nanomaterials  in  the  context  of  the  cellular  environment   is   crucial   for   the  success  of  nanomaterials.   In   this   seminar  we  will  discuss   the  nanotoxicology  at  molecular  level.  Briefly,  we  will  talk  about  the  major  endocytic  pathways;  by  which  cell  can  internalize  nanomaterials.  In  addition,  we  will  discuss  the  intracellular  trafficking,  metabolism,  and  undesirable  effects  of  nanomaterials  in  eukaryotic  cells.