Examining the Cellular Uptake and Toxicity of Engineered Nanomaterials

Engineered Nanomaterials (ENs) such as silica, ceria and alumina nanoparticles have been extensively used in health care, energy and electronics. However, their toxicity and cellular uptake, which are strongly dependent on their physiochemical properties and on cell interaction, are largely unknown. The objective of this work is to study and quantify the cellular uptake of silica, ceria and alumina ENs. First, comprehensive characterization using DLS, zeta potential, BET, XRD, FTIR, Raman, SEM and TEM was done. Then, cell exposure studies were carried out on A549 lung epithetical cells to study cell viability and membrane integrity. Lastly, cellular uptake of ENs was studied by using techniques such as Confocal Raman Spectroscopy and ICP-OES and Electrochemical Cell-substrate Impedance Sensing (ECIS). ICP-OES analysis showed uptake of silica, ceria and alumina, while Confocal Raman indicated the uptake of Ceria ENs. Time-course effects of EN on A549 cells were studied using ECIS measurements.