Physicochemical Factors Controlling the Capacity of Nanoparticles to Penetrate Cells

The objectives of the Cell Pen project (A study to identify physicochemical factors controlling the capacity of nanoparticles to penetrate cells) were to scope the research required into the mechanisms of translocation across the respiratory epithelium, and the resulting possible toxic effects in and beyond the lung.
In addition, the project advised on:
- The feasibility of Identifying which features of nano-particles/tubes/fibres are important in particle-cell interactions;
- Suggesting how NPs may be modified to enhance or reduce their capacity to enter cells; and
- Suggesting how interactions between NPs and cultured human cells might be studied.
The CELL PEN report was completed in late 2008, and published in January 2009.
A full copy of the CELL PEN report is available to
download here.