High content imaging as a strategy for unveiling molecular mechanisms of nanotoxicity

• Grant number: 24/22153-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biophysics - Cellular Biophysics
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Bispo de Jesus
• Grantee: Marcelo Bispo de Jesus
• Host Investigator: Beth Cimini
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Broad Institute, United States

Abstract

This project tackles critical challenges in nanotoxicity, focusing on nanomaterials used in therapeutic applications, environmental safety, and pest control. By leveraging high-content imaging approaches, including the phenotypic profiling of nanoparticle-exposed cells, the study will identify subtle toxicological responses, contributing to a deeper understanding of environmental and human health risks associated with these materials. The goal is to deepen our understanding of cellular responses to these nanomaterials, enabling transformative applications in medicine, biotechnology, and toxicology. The project includes three sub-proposals. NanoCell@Therapeutics aims to elucidate mechanisms by which nanoparticles, including silver, gold, and lipid-based carriers, enhance tumor treatments while minimizing side effects. NanoCell@GeneDelivery explores nanotechnology-driven strategies to deliver genetic material for environmentally safe pest control. NanoCell@Nanotox investigates the molecular toxicity mechanisms of micro- and nanoplastics and silver nanoparticles, using advanced imaging to detect subtle toxicological effects and assess risks to human and environmental health. This research will bridge fundamental science with practical applications, advancing nanotechnology-enabled therapies, promoting sustainability, and guiding the development of safer nanomaterials. By addressing interdisciplinary challenges, the project will influence medicine, agriculture, and toxicology, driving innovation with societal and scientific impact.