Interactions of hydrophobic and hydrophilic semiconductor quantum dots with cell model systems for liver and adipose tissue (NANOFATE)

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Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and superparamagnetic iron-oxide nanocrystals (SPIOs) have exceptional physical properties that are well-suited for biomedical applications in vitro and in vivo. The direct injection of nanocrystals for imaging and therapy represents an important entry route into humans in future. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully investigate the biological response of the body to nanocrystals to avoid harmful side effects. In recent years we established a system to prepare nanocrystals with hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties which survive biological conditions in vitro and in vivo. The impact of these particles on intracellular processes in cell model systems for liver and adipose tissues have been investigated within the first funding period but it still remains unclear whether these findings can be translated to the situation in vivo.The goal of the current application is to investigate in vivo the interaction, processing and degradation of nanocrystals as well as the specific cellular response to these interactions after injection of nanocrystals in mice. To address these issues we will• determine the contributions of different hepatic cell types for nanocrystals clearance.• Follow the intracellular routes of nanocrystals within hepatic cells.• quantify the degradation and excretion of nanocrystals.• explore biological responses to nanocrystals in relation to cell type and intracellular localization in the liver.The outcome of these results will not only provide in depth insights into potential hazards associated with unintended exposure of nanocrystals but will also greatly influence the potential use of nanocrystals for biomedical applications.