Kwon N.H., Beaux M., Sheng H., Ebert C., Wang L., McIlroy D.N., Hovde C.J., Bohach G.A.
University of Idaho, US
Keywords: endocytosis, MAC-T cell, nanowires, Shiga toxin 1 A
Silica-based nanowires were used to introduce the Shiga toxin 1 A subunit (StxA1) into bovine and human epithelial cells. We extended our previous technology which employs fibronectin (Fn) as a ligand to induce integrin-mediated uptake of nanowires by simultaneously coating nanowires with Fn and StxA1. Without its counterpart, B subunit, StxA1, which can kill eukaryotic cells by inhibiting protein synthesis, cannot enter the cells without the aid of Fn-coated nanowires. The bonding strengths of Fn and StxA1 to the surface of nanowires were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. This technique demonstrated some complex interactions between Fn, StxA1, and the nanowires. Neutral red cytotoxicity assays and field emission scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that the StxA1-Fn-nanowire complexes were effectively internalized and resulted in epithelial cell death. This study shows that nanowires can be used to carry StxA1 or potentially other toxic or therapeutic agents into eukaryotic cells. Ongoing studies are aimed toward specific cell targeting and increasing the functionality of the StxA1.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 352 - 355
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 1-4200-6183-6