Session: 16-01-01: Government Agency Student Poster Competition

Paper Number: 147111

147111 - Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Biosensor Nanomaterial Interaction With Cancer Cells 

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been explored as biosensors for various analytes, due to their unique properties and the possibility of functionalization. Since they are so small (1 nm x 150 nm), they can be quickly taken up by cells and have been investigated as biosensors for monitoring real-time analyte levels within specific cellular organelles of interest. Detection of such analytes like nitric oxide using SWNT sensors at the nanoscale serves as valuable diagnostic tools and contributes to a deeper understanding of disease progressions, such as cancer. However, there is a need for a better understanding of the nanomaterial-cell interaction to allow for improved sensor functionality without compromising the overall state of the cells. My research focuses on bridging this gap by studying the impact of the nanomaterial biosensor (SWNT) developed on the overall cell health, and any effects the nanomaterial may have on the biophysical or biomechanical properties of the cell. The aim is to limit the possible toxicity of the nanomaterial to the cells without compromising the sensor functionality. Preliminary cell viability studies using flow cytometry indicate no toxicity to the cells when exposed to 1-10 ug/uL of the SWNT sensor within a 3-hour incubation period. In addition, cell morphology analysis using actin staining and migration assays suggests no significant difference in shape or migration rate in comparison to the control group without the sensors. Scanning electron microscopy images (SEM) of the cell surface do not show any significant changes with or without the sensors present. Adding on to current findings bio-atomic force microscopy (bio-AFM) results will highlight if there are any changes in the cell mechanical properties(elasticity) after the nanotubes interact with the cell membrane. This information will also be particularly useful to the cell biomechanics community as cell membrane elasticity is currently being explored as a potential biomarker for early disease diagnosis. Overall, this work will provide a better understanding of how cells interact with the sensor and aid in future studies that will enhance controlled uptake and subsequent functioning of the sensor in these cells. Not only that but this can be applied to other applications of nanotubes in drug delivery to provide better cancer treatments.

 

Presenting Author: Portia Plange University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Presenting Author Biography: 3rd year PhD student at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Biomedical Engineering

Authors:

Portia Plange University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Nicole Iverson University of Nebraska-Lincoln