Cell-surface glycosaminoglycans regulate the cellular uptake of charged polystyrene nanoparticles

Genome-wide forward genetic screening to identify receptors and proteins mediating nanoparticle uptake and intracellular processing

Understanding how cells process nanoparticles is crucial to optimize nanomedicine efficacy. However, characterizing cellular pathways is challenging, especially if non-canonical mechanisms are involved. In this Article a genome-wide forward genetic screening based on insertional mutagenesis is applied to discover receptors and proteins involved in the intracellular accumulation (uptake and intracellular processing) of silica nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are covered by a human serum corona known to target the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). By sorting cells with reduced nanoparticle accumulation and deep sequencing after each sorting, 80 enriched genes are identified. We find that, as well as LDLR, the scavenger receptor SCARB1 also mediates nanoparticle accumulation. Additionally, heparan sulfate acts as a specific nanoparticle receptor, and its role varies depending on cell and nanoparticle type. Furthermore, some of the identified targets affect nanoparticle trafficking to the lysosomes. These results show the potential of genetic screening to characterize nanoparticle pathways. Additionally, they indicate that corona-coated nanoparticles are internalized via multiple receptors.

Nanoparticle-Based Delivery Systems for Vaccines

Vaccination is still the most cost-effective way to combat infectious illnesses. Conventional vaccinations may have low immunogenicity and, in most situations, only provide partial protection. A new class of nanoparticle-based vaccinations has shown considerable promise in addressing the majority of the shortcomings of traditional and subunit vaccines. This is due to recent breakthroughs in chemical and biological engineering, which allow for the exact regulation of nanoparticle size, shape, functionality, and surface characteristics, resulting in improved antigen presentation and robust immunogenicity. A blend of physicochemical, immunological, and toxicological experiments can be used to accurately characterize nanovaccines. This narrative review will provide an overview of the current scenario of the nanovaccine.