ISIS Neutron and Muon Source Data Journal
This is a page describing data taken during an experiment at the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source. Information about the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source can be found at https://www.isis.stfc.ac.uk.
Investigations of polymer nanocarriers effects on model membrane properties
Abstract: We are interested on how polymer nanocarriers, even when empty, affect biological membranes. Often considered inert, nanocarriers can alter cell membranes, potentially altering permeability, signaling, or inducing stress responses, depending on their physicochemical traits. The objective is to link polymer composition, block length, and morphology to membrane responses using model lipid systems. Previous experiments using fluorescence spectroscopy revealed composition and morphology dependent effects. For example, PEO(5k)-PCL(4k) micelles caused membrane leakage in DOPC vesicles, while similarly sized PEO(3.1k)-PS(2.3k) micelles did not. Moreover, PEO-PCL nanocarriers of different morphologies (micelles, polymersomes, worm-like micelles) exhibited variable membrane-disrupting efficiency, suggesting complex mechanisms influenced by shape and polymer characteristics. To elucidate these mechanisms, neutron reflectometry (NR)will be used using supported lipid bilayers (DOPC and DOPC/Chol 80:20) before and after injection of four nanocarrier types. Data collected in varied solvent contrasts will reveal whether carriers adsorb, destabilize, or remove lipids. The requested beamtime (4 days on OFFSPEC and 3 on INTER) will enable comprehensive characterization of 16 bilayers, providing mechanistic insights crucial for evaluating nanocarrier safety and biocompatibility.
Principal Investigator: Dr Barbara Lonetti
Experimenter: Mr Marco Cerchiari
Local Contact: Dr Mario Campana
Experimenter: Dr Alessandra Luchini
DOI: 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610292
ISIS Experiment Number: RB2610292
| Part DOI | Instrument | Public release date | Download Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610292-1 | OFFSPEC | 25 September 2029 | Download |
Publisher: STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
Data format: RAW/Nexus
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Data Citation
The recommended format for citing this dataset in a research
publication is as:
[author], [date], [title], [publisher],
[doi]
For Example:
Dr Barbara Lonetti et al; (2026): Investigations of polymer nanocarriers effects on model membrane properties, STFC ISIS Neutron and Muon Source, https://doi.org/10.5286/ISIS.E.RB2610292
Data is released under the CC-BY-4.0 license.
