Skip to main content
Fig. 2 | Journal of Nanobiotechnology

Fig. 2

From: Multiparametric investigation of non functionalized-AGuIX nanoparticles in 3D human airway epithelium models demonstrates preferential targeting of tumor cells

Fig. 2

Overview of AGuIX® NPs uptake and distribution on MucilAir™ by confocal microscopy evidenced the uptake in ciliated cells. a The AGuIX®-RhoB solution was added at 10 mM for 1 h and removed for observation using 2-photon confocal microscopy. Autofluorescence and second harmonic generation revealed structures such as cilia of ciliated cells (pseudocolored in green). Blue nuclear staining evidenced the nucleus. AGuIX®-RhoB NPs were heterogeneously distributed, as indicated by the red spots of cell vesicles. b Confocal layout showing the distribution of AGuIX®-RhoB NPs 1 h after apical exposure, with red arrows indicating AGuIX® NP accumulation at the base of the cilia apparatus and c phase contrast of a MucilAir™ insert. The ciliated cells were identified by tubulin staining (green), the nuclei are pseudocolored in blue, and the NPs are represented in red. The ciliated cells are delineated by a dotted line (white), while the goblet cells are delineated with a blue continuous line, and the basal cells are delineated with an orange continuous line. The insert membrane is indicated by an irregular dotted line. df Confocal images of AGuIX® NP distribution with time: 1 h, 24 h, and 72 h. The red signal of the NPs decreased during the 24–72 h kinetic period until it was almost completely eliminated at 72 h after exposure

Back to article page