Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have developed a new method for studying the biological effects of nanoparticles using hydrogel tissue scaffolds. These 3D scaffolds, made from water-loving, jelly-like materials, provide a more realistic environment for testing how nanoparticles interact with cells and tissues compared to traditional 2D cell cultures.
The NIST team demonstrated that quantum dots, tiny semiconducting materials, can be tracked in cells embedded in hydrogel scaffolds for extended periods. The hydrogel scaffolds allow cells to form tissue-like structures and are exposed to lower levels of nanoparticles, providing a more representative scenario for evaluating biological effects.
This new method could improve the accuracy of nanoparticle testing and reduce the need for animal models in research. The hydrogel scaffolds can accommodate studies of how nanoparticle interactions evolve over time and how the physical features of nanoparticles may change.
Keywords: Nanoparticles, Hydrogel, Quantum dots, Polymer, Scaffold
