Cellular uptake of microplastics as a function of basic particle properties (A04)

• Subject Area: Biophysics ; Ecology and Biodiversity of Animals and Ecosystems, Organismic Interactions ; Polymer Materials ; Statistical Physics, Nonlinear Dynamics, Complex Systems, Soft and Fluid Matter, Biological Physics
• Term: since 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 391977956

A04 is analyzing within the CRC 1357 the interactions of MP with cells depending on physical and chemical particle properties (i.a. eco-corona, ς-potential, surface mechanics, particle shape and additives) as well as the mutual influence of these properties (e.g. the influence of the eco-corona on the ς-potential). To study more realistic particle shapes and cells, our studies will be extended to fibers and irregularly shaped particles as well as primary cells from aquatic and terrestrial organisms. As methods, flow chambers, optical tweezers and model particles with polyelectrolyte-multilayer-coatings will be applied among others.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1357: MICROPLASTICS - Understanding the mechanisms and processes of biological effects, transport and formation: From model to complex systems as a basis for new solutions
• Applicant Institution: Universität Bayreuth
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Andreas Fery; Professor Dr. Holger Kreß; Professor Dr. Christian Laforsch