On July 2, 2026, researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences introduced a groundbreaking method using nanozymes to trace nanoparticle pathways inside live cells without genetic engineering. Led by Prof. Liu Yuan and Prof. Jing Ji, this study aims to enhance the understanding of how nanoparticles behave at the cellular level.
Innovative Approach to Nanoparticle Tracking
Traditional methods of studying nanoparticles often face limitations. Optical microscopy provides a generalized view, while proteomics requires cell lysis, disrupting protein distribution. The newly developed nanozyme proximity labeling (NPL) method circumvents these issues by allowing real-time tracking of nanoparticles without genetic modification.
The research team utilized iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles with peroxidase-like activity to label nearby proteins in situ. Activation with hydrogen peroxide enabled the nanozymes to label proximate proteins within just one minute, mimicking ascorbate peroxidase-based techniques. This innovative approach provides valuable insights into the interactions between nanoparticles and cellular proteins.
Key Findings on Cellular Interactions
The study revealed significant differences in the intracellular pathways of mitochondria-targeted versus nontargeted nanoparticles. Mitochondria-targeted nanoparticles showed a 1.5-fold enrichment of mitochondrial proteins, indicating a more effective interaction with intracellular trafficking mediators. In contrast, nontargeted nanoparticles were primarily directed toward lysosomal degradation pathways.
