Nanoparticles: Synthesis, characterisation, and cellular effects

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Henning Bockhorn; Dr. Hanns-Rudolf Paur; Dr. Harald Saathoff; Privatdozent Dr. Carsten Weiss
• Subject Area: Technical Chemistry ; Pharmacology ; Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2008 to 2011
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 57095923

The aim of the project is to quantify the influence of the properties of metal-oxide nanoparticles (size, degree of agglomeration, chemical composition, surface properties, and coating) on the induction of cellular signalling pathways which are characteristic for the response to oxidative stress and immune reactions. Within the framework of the project proposed, nanoparticles with defined composition, size distribution, and surface properties will be synthesised, transferred into an aerosol with defined size/morphology, and deposited on lung cells via the air/liquid interface with well defined mass, number, and surface doses. Ultimately, the biological responses in cell systems will be quantified, the nanoparticles will be localised in the cellular compartments and the underlying mechanisms of action will be analysed.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1313: Biological Responses to Nanoscale Particles (Bio-Nano-Responses)
• Participating Person: Dr. Silvia Diabaté