Reprogramming cellular signaling machinery using surface-modified carbon nanotubes

Yi Zhang, Ling Wu, Cuijuan Jiang, Bing Yan

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Nanoparticles, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), interact with cells and are easily internalized, causing various perturbations to cell functions. The mechanisms involved in such perturbations are investigated by a systematic approach that utilizes modified CNTs and various chemical-biological assays. Three modes of actions are (1) CNTs bind to different cell surface receptors and perturb different cell signaling pathways; (2) CNTs bind to a receptor with different affinity and, therefore, strengthen or weaken signals; (3) CNTs enter cells and bind to soluble signaling proteins involved in a signaling pathway. Understanding of such mechanisms not only clarifies how CNTs cause cytotoxicity but also demonstrates a useful method to modulate biological/toxicological activities of CNTs for their various industrial, biomedical, and consumer applications.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)296-305
Number of pages10
JournalChemical research in toxicology
Volume28
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 16 2015
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Toxicology

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