Physicochemical Changes of Apoferritin Protein during Biodegradation of Magnetic Metal Oxide Nanoparticles.

ABSTRACT: The biodegradation of therapeutic magnetic-oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) in the human body raises concerns about their lifespan, functionality, and health risks. Interactions between apoferritin proteins and MONPs in the spleen, liver, and inflammatory macrophages significantly accelerate nanoparticle degradation, releasing metal ions taken up by apoferritin. This can alter the protein's biological structure and properties, potentially causing health hazards. This study examines changes in apoferritin's shape, electrical surface potential (ESP), and protein-core composition after incubation with cobalt-ferrite (CoFe₂O₄) oxide nanoparticles. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning Kelvin probe force microscopy (SKPFM), we observed changes in the topography and E

SUBMITTER: Rahimi E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11450718 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature