title: Polymeric Microporous Nanofilms as Smart Platforms for in Vitro Assessment of Nanoparticle Translocation and Caco-2 Cell Culture.
abstract: The study of nanomaterial translocation across epithelial barriers is often hindered by the low permeability of transwell membranes to nanoparticles. To address this issue ultra-thin poly(L-lactic acid) nanofilms with zero tortuosity micropores were developed for use in nanoparticle passage tests. In this study we demonstrate that microporous polymeric nanofilms allow a significantly higher passage of silver nanoparticles in comparison with commercial membranes normally used in transwell inserts. A reliable procedure for collecting free-standing nanofilms which enables their manipulation and use in lab-on-chip systems is described. We also demonstrate the cytocompatibility of porous nanofilms and their ability to sustain the adhesion and proliferation of Caco-2 cells. Ultra-thin microporous membranes show promise as low-cost nanomaterial screening tools and may be used as matrices for the development of bioengineered systems for mimicking the intestinal epithelium.
authors: Leonardo
authors: L
authors: Ricotti
authors: Giulia
authors: G
authors: Gori
authors: Daniele
authors: D
authors: Cei
authors: Joana
authors: J
authors: Costa
authors: Giovanni
authors: G
authors: Signore
authors: Arti
authors: A
authors: Ahluwalia
mesh_terms: D001709:Biotechnology / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D018938:Caco-2 Cells; D006801:Humans; D056656:Lab-On-A-Chip Devices; D008567:Membranes, Artificial; D008954:Models, Biological; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000032:analysis / Q000378:metabolism*; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry*; D016062:Porosity
chemical_list: D008567:Membranes, Artificial; D011108:Polymers