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Team members : A. Cabin-Flaman (MCF), P. Pareige (PR), A. Delaune (MCF), L. Chevalier (IR)
Nano-analysis and biology - Contact : A. Cabin-Flaman
The major declination of this theme is the study of the penetration or non-penetration of exogenous substances, topical or from the environment, in the biological structures studied, mainly the human skin here. The substances of interest are molecules and/or metallic nanoparticles because they are the source of health and/or environmental concerns. Through the study of these models, we develop correlative SIMS and TEM imaging of biological objects and then seek to extend this know-how to SEM imaging of the GPM instrumental park.
Our activities also include the extension and adaptation of a statistical analysis software of weak signals obtained in SIMS to the analysis of weak signals in SEM for the resolution of biological problems.
Nano-analysis and Health-Medicine - Contact: L. Chevalier
Current events constantly remind us of the urgency and importance of developing research strategies oriented towards the impact of nanoparticle pollution on human health. There is a real need to federate the skills of physicists, chemists, toxicologists and physicians in order to be able to scan the broad spectrum of nanoparticle effects on human health. Beyond the aspects of nanotoxicology, the complete morpho-chemical characterization of nanoparticles with their follow-up in biological matrices at the tissue or cell level, are complementary approaches to toxicological studies. Our expertise is declined in two main fields:
a) The development of analytical tools in electron microscopies: chemical imaging approaches in scanning mode transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy loss spectroscopies (EELS/EFTEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopies (EDS) in the field of understanding cellular mechanisms that lead to the development of pathologies. The characterization and monitoring of nanoparticles of interest (food additives, atmospheric particulate pollutants, combustion nanoparticles, etc.) is also addressed.
b) Exploration of cardio-respiratory systems and biological barriers: Our instruments can determine the ultrastructural modifications at subcellular scales related to exposure to exogenous pollutants, thus contributing to a better understanding of aggravated pathologies. We can track nanoparticles in biological matrices, which contributes to a better understanding of their interaction with cells and their ability to cross biological barriers.