The group's research is focused on advancing synchrotron-based techniques and methodologies for unveiling fundamental questions related to the nano-bio interface. Synchrotron radiation, a powerful tool for probing the structural, chemical, and physical properties of materials, is at the core of our research effort. The primary techniques employed in our studies include small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS), nano-infrared (nano-IR) spectroscopy, ptychography and cryogenic soft X-ray tomography (cryo-SXT). Each technique offers unique insights and capabilities, making them invaluable for probing nano-bio interfaces.
Our research focuses on developing advanced synchrotron-based small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) methodologies to investigate structural properties and interactions at the nano–bio interface. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding protein corona formation, nanoparticle aggregation, and the structural transformations occurring when nanomaterials interact with biological environments. By combining experimental approaches with quantitative scattering models, we aim to characterize nanoparticle–protein interactions directly in complex media, minimizing sample manipulation and preserving adsorption equilibria. These developments contribute to understanding the biological identity and behavior of nanomaterials under increasingly realistic conditions.
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3) Nanoparticle-Protein Interaction: Demystifying the Correlation between Protein Corona and Aggregation Phenomena. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, v. 14, p. 28559, 2022.
4) Inside the Protein Corona: From Binding Parameters to Unstained Hard and Soft Coronas Visualization. Nano Letters, v. 21, p. 8250, 2021.
Our research explores the application of X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) to investigate the dynamics of nanoparticles and soft matter systems under complex environmental and biological conditions. By analyzing temporal fluctuations in coherent X-ray scattering patterns, XPCS provides access to nanoscale dynamics, including particle diffusion, aggregation, and structural relaxation processes. Particular attention is given to distinguishing nanoparticle aggregation from protein corona formation in biological media, where conventional characterization methods often face significant limitations. Our work also aims to extend XPCS methodologies toward increasingly complex and evolving systems, taking advantage of the enhanced coherent flux available at fourth-generation synchrotron sources.
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1) Distinguishing Protein Corona from Nanoparticle Aggregate Formation in Complex Biological Media Using X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy. Nano Letters, v. 24, p. 13293, 2024.
Our research explores nanoscale chemical characterization using synchrotron-based infrared nanospectroscopy (nano-IR), combining infrared spectroscopy with scanning probe microscopy to investigate molecular interactions beyond the diffraction limit of conventional optical techniques. Particular emphasis is placed on understanding the chemical transformations occurring at the interface between nanomaterials and biological systems. Current investigations include the characterization of proteins adsorbed onto nanoparticle surfaces and the interactions between functionalized nanomaterials and bacterial cells. By providing spatially resolved chemical information, nano-IR offers new opportunities to investigate molecular processes governing the biological response to nanomaterials and their potential applications.
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Our research focuses on developing and combining advanced X-ray imaging techniques, particularly cryogenic soft X-ray tomography (cryo-SXT) and X-ray ptychography, to investigate biological systems at the nanoscale. These complementary approaches provide three-dimensional structural information and high-resolution imaging of cells, enabling the characterization of nanoparticle internalization, intracellular distribution, and interactions with cellular structures. By integrating X-ray microscopy with fluorescence-based techniques, we aim to establish correlative and multiscale imaging strategies that reveal how nanoparticle properties and biological environments influence their cellular uptake and fate. Our work also explores new imaging methodologies and sample preparation protocols to improve the visualization of nanomaterials within complex biological systems.
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2) Internalization and Cellular Fate of Protein Corona-Coated Nanoparticles by Multimodal Multi-Scale Microscopy. Small, v. 21, 2409065, 2025.
Our research focuses on developing advanced synchrotron-based methodologies and experimental platforms for investigating biological systems under controlled biocontainment conditions. By integrating X-ray scattering, imaging, and spectroscopic techniques with biosafety requirements, we aim to expand the scientific capabilities of synchrotron facilities for studying pathogenic microorganisms and their interactions with nanomaterials. Recent developments include a reversible Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) platform enabling experiments at multiple Sirius beamlines and the design of an innovative architecture connecting synchrotron imaging instruments to Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) laboratories within the Orion project. These advances open new opportunities for investigating biological processes across multiple spatial scales while maintaining rigorous biosafety standards.
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SMALL-ANGLE X-RAY SCATTERING (SAXS)
X-RAY PHOTON CORRELATION SPECTROSCOPY (XPCS)
NANO-INFRARED (NANO-IR) SPECTROCOPY
CORRELATIVE X-RAY IMAGING: CRYO-SXT AND PTYCHOGRAPHY
SYNCHROTRON SCIENCE IN BIOCONTAINMENT ENVIRONMENTS
