EU scientists show how nanoparticles touch cell nuclei

EU-funded scientists have tracked how nanoparticles pass through the body and into cells, showing they could aid the targeted delivery of medicines.

In a study showing how far they can penetrate living tissue, the Euro 2.8m Magselectofection study showed that once nanoparticles enter a cell, they move randomly until collected by proteins, which take them to the cell nucleus. The research was staged to help drug companies develop targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals with nanoparticles.

In a European Commission briefing note, Anna Sauer of participant Ludwig-Maximilians University (LMU) Munich in Germany, said: "We were able to watch the particles in real time and at high temporal and spatial resolution as they made their way into the cells."

The information could be important in developing targeted therapies, for instance in fighting cancer cells without affecting the rest of the body.

Scientists have already used electromagnetism to focus nanoparticles on cancers, but Magselectofection showed it did not help them penetrate cell walls.

LMU's Christoph Braeuchle added: "We saw..that the magnetic field can only direct particles outside cells. But, contrary to expectations, it did not facilitate entry into cells."

However, he added that this could help future studies optimise nanotherapy delivery - developing "new systems".