Cellular Uptake Mechanism of Nanomaterials in Plants

Nanoparticles are progressively being utilized in exclusive biomedical applications because of their valuable and exceptional properties. However, understanding the cellular take-up of nanoparticles is pivotal for their viable use in their diverse applications. In this chapter, the uptake of NPs, including different pathways they might take after their uptake, is discussed. Research has shown that nanoparticles can enter cells in different ways. Endocytosis, phagocytosis, and pinocytosis are the most well-known pathways and include the uptake of nanoparticles by the development of layer-bounded vesicles. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis, caveolae-mediated endocytosis, and macropinocytosis are the various kinds of endocytosis involved in the cellular uptake of NPs. However, the cellular uptake of nanoparticles is a complicated interaction that depends on the physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles, such as size, shape, surface charge, and surface science, as well as the cell type and its microenvironment. This chapter provides a detailed explanation of nanoparticle uptake at the cellular level.