NanoAnalyzer: An emerging technology to analyse life at the nanoscale

Researchers at The University of Sheffield (TUoS) are focused on understanding how cells talk to each other. We also investigate how human cells and bacteria interact during infection. We have already shown that cells talk to each other by releasing very small particles (known as nanoparticles), which contain molecules that act as messages. Bacteria and human cells can also communicate in this way. We also study these particles so that we can design artificial nanoparticles, which can carry molecules that can be used in the treatment of diseases such as cancer. To study natural and artificial nanoparticles, we require specialist equipment that allows us to measure the particle size, concentration and molecular messages they contain. However, we do not currently have equipment at TUoS that allows us to achieve this. The aim of this application is to secure funding to purchase a unique instrument called the NanoAnalyzer, which uses lasers to measure the size and number of particles that pass through the machine. The NanoAnalyzer can also detect green and red fluorescent particles, which allows us to tag the molecular messages contained in nanoparticles. Purchasing this instrument is essential to ensure that TUoS remains at the forefront of nanoparticle research.

The Medical School Flow Cytometry Core Facility (FCCF) houses a suite of flow cytometry instruments and supports researchers across The University of Sheffield (TUoS). The FCCF is a multi-user facility (~64 research groups and >160 users), providing specialist training and technical support. The aim of this application is to secure funding to purchase a dual laser flow NanoAnalyzer to be housed in the FCCF and increase research capacity at TUoS. The NanoAnalyzer is a specialised flow cytometer that can analyse biological particles 40 - 1000 nm in size (inorganic particles as small as 7 nm can be detected). The instrument is unique as it can perform simultaneous measurement of particle size, concentration and dual fluorescence. Our existing instrumentation does not have this capability and is a limiting factor in nanoparticle research at TUoS. The NanoAnalyzer would allow in-depth characterisation of extracellular vesicles (EVs), allowing us to elucidate their role in processes such as cellular ageing, antitumour immunity, inflammation, and host-pathogen interactions. Thus, aligning with the BBSRC strategy to promote bioscience discovery that 'advances our understanding of the fundamental rules of life'. In addition, the instrument would be used to analyse novel therapeutic delivery vectors such as polymer and lipid nanoparticles, oncolytic viruses, and adeno associated viruses. The NanoAnalyzer is a transformative technology that we will utilise to answer biological questions and for novel biotechnology applications.