Nanoparticle Interactions with Blood Components
Summary
Nanoparticles introduced into the bloodstream encounter a complex milieu of plasma proteins, cells and soluble factors that collectively determine their fate and function. The initial adsorption of plasma proteins forms a dynamic “protein corona” that governs recognition by immune cells and influences circulation time. Interactions with erythrocytes may alter membrane integrity and rheological properties, whereas contacts with platelets can trigger activation or inhibit aggregation, thereby affecting haemostasis. Leucocyte engagement and complement activation underlie potential inflammatory responses and clearance mechanisms. Surface chemistry, charge, size and shape of the nanoparticle dictate affinity for specific blood components, modulating coagulation pathways and biodistribution profiles. A precise understanding of these processes is crucial for optimising safety and efficacy in applications ranging from intravenous drug delivery to diagnostic imaging, and for minimising risks of thrombosis, immunogenicity or haemolysis. Emerging in vitro and in vivo models are refining our ability to predict and control nanoparticle behaviour in the circulatory system.
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Nanoparticle Interactions with Blood Components publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in nanoparticle interactions with blood components across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Protein corona: Layer of adsorbed plasma proteins on a nanoparticle surface that determines biological identity.
Haemocompatibility: Suitability of a material or nanoparticle to interact with blood without adverse effects.
Platelet aggregation: Process by which platelets clump together, essential for clot formation and wound repair.
Thrombogenicity: Tendency of a material or particle to induce blood clot formation within vessels.
Complement activation: Triggering of the complement cascade, leading to inflammation and opsonisation of foreign entities.
References
- Polyvinylpyrrolidone-stabilised gold nanoparticle coatings inhibit blood protein adsorption. Nanotechnology Reviews (2024).
- A double‐edged sword: The complex interplay between engineered nanoparticles and platelets. Bioengineering & Translational Medicine (2024).
- How Dendrimers Impact Fibrin Clot Formation, Structure, and Properties. ACS Omega (2024).
- The Hemocompatibility of Nanoparticles: A Review of Cell–Nanoparticle Interactions and Hemostasis. Cells (2019).
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