Chemistry & Biochemistry Seminar: "The biological interactions of nanomaterials: Perfluorocarbon nanoemulsions and microplastics"

Presenter

Prof. Rachael Day  (Drury University)

Abstract

The Day research group focuses on studying the biological implications of materials less than 5 mm in size. Two of these materials are nanoemulsions and microplastics. Perfluorocarbon nanoemulsions, droplets of fluorous solvent stabilized by a polymeric amphiphile dispersed in water, are an intriguing platform for drug delivery. The fluorous phase is biocompatible, has a high dissolved oxygen content, and is both lipophobic and hydrophobic, preventing the leaching of payloads. Microplastics are formed by the breakdown of larger plastic waste products. We are exposed to microplastics in most facets of our lives, including stormwater run-off and water processing. Here, we studied the effect of environmental microplastics on inflammation and endocytosis.

Free