29

Oct 2024

BESE Seminar

BESE 398 Graduate Seminars Series:Hybrid interfaces between nanosensors and living cells

Presenter
Professor Francesco De Angelis
Date
29 Oct, 2024
Time
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Abstract:
Observing cell signalling within large networks of human neurons presents a significant challenge, yet it has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of the brain's physiological and pathological functions. Additionally, it could inspire the development of artificial systems based on neuronal circuits. In recent years, we have extensively explored, both theoretically and experimentally, the interactions between 3D nanostructured sensors and living cells, such as human neurons and cardiomyocytes. Our goal is to create an effective interface between living tissues and various types of nanosensors, facilitating multiscale and multivariable observation of cellular dynamics. A key advancement we developed is a method for opening transient nanopores in cell membranes in close proximity to the nanosensor. This allows the sensor tip to directly contact the intracellular environment, enabling intracellular investigations, including the acquisition of Raman spectra of biomolecules, electrical recordings of action potentials from human neurons and cardiomyocytes, and controlled delivery of single nanoparticles into selected cells. We have demonstrated the ability to non-invasively assess the effects of relevant drugs on human cells, particularly in relation to cardiotoxicity—an essential step prior to clinical trials.
Still within the context of nanosensors for biological applications, we are developing a groundbreaking technology for identifying proteins, RNA, or metabolites. This innovation combines Raman Spectroscopy with nanopore technology. We envision that these two research directions will eventually converge, allowing for longitudinal studies of protein and RNA expression at the single-cell level in real time and without the need for labels.

Bio:
Dr Francesco De Angelis got a MD in Physics at the University of Rome in 2000 and the PhD in Physics of Matter in 2004. In 2009 he moved to the Italian Institute of Technology IIT (Genoa) where he currently leads the Plasmon Nanotechnologies Unit. His main expertise relies on the design and fabrication of nanostructures for optics, electronics and mechanics applied to molecular sensing with special emphasis on bio-molecules and living tissues. He published more than 180 papers mainly in the fields of nanotechnology and biomedical physics on leading peer-reviewed journals, and he is co-founder of a startup based on his research output (www.foreseebiosystems.com). His main interests are devoted to i) nanostructured interfaces between opto-electronic sensors and living cells and ii) single molecule sensing. The research unit is composed of about 20 people. Among them, physicists, chemists, biotechnologists, pharmacologists and engineers collaborate in a very multi-disciplinary research group that aims to control biological systems at the nanoscale.

Event Quick Information

Date
29 Oct, 2024
Time
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Venue
Building 9 - Lecture Hall 2325