Developing a model for nanoparticle-plant cell interactions: layered double hydroxide nanocarrier surface chemistry influence on mesophyll p

Nanocarriers (NC) can provide highly efficient agrochemical delivery, potentially transforming the way that we deliver nutrients to crops. However, relating NC design to the ability to target active agents to specific locations in the plants is needed to realize this goal. Plant protoplasts (plant cells without their cell walls) are the primary cell compartments in plant leaves where nutrients and active agents are needed. This study proposes to use synchrotron X-ray fluorescence imaging and spot XANES to determine how NC surface chemistry can influence their capacity to cross lipid membranes. We hypothesize that the surface chemistry of layered double hydroxide NCs (amine, arginine, histidine, PEG, OH) will enable NC targeting and delivery onto or into protoplasts. XRF imaging will be used to determine if NCs are outside, inside, and/or associated with specific organelles of the protoplast. µ-XANES are used to ensure that the NCs are being imaged rather than the metal tracer.