Interaction of Nanoparticles With Proteins

Abstract

Nanoparticles, with their unique physicochemical properties, have gained significant attention due to their potential in medicine, materials science, and environmental remediation. This chapter elucidates the fundamental concepts of nanoparticle-protein interactions, covering adsorption mechanisms, surface modifications, and conformational changes. It explores the factors influencing these interactions, such as particle size, shape, surface charge, and protein structure. It discusses the role of nanoparticles in drug delivery, highlighting how their interaction with proteins can impact their biodistribution, targeting efficiency, and release kinetics. Additionally, the potential toxicological effects of these interactions are examined, emphasizing the importance of understanding nanoparticle-protein interactions for assessing their safety. Beyond biomedical applications, the chapter also explores how nanoparticle-protein interactions are harnessed in catalysis, sensing, and nanomaterial fabrication.