Quantum dot interactions and flow effects in angiogenic zebrafish (Danio rerio) vessels and human endothelial cells

This study investigates the association of quantum dots (QDs) with endothelial cells in vivo (zebrafish) and in vitro (HUVEC) and the effect of fluid flow. In vivo, circulating QDs associate with endothelium and penetrate surrounding tissue parenchyma, suggesting uptake. Amino-functionalized QDs cluster, interact with cells, and degrade more rapidly than carboxy-functionalized QDs in vivo, highlighting charge influences. QDs show stronger accumulation in slow-flowing, small caliber venous vessels than in fast-flowing high caliber arterial vessels. Parallel-plate flow experiments with HUVEC support these findings, showing reduced QD-EC association with increasing flow. Our results suggest that both QD charge and blood flow modulate particle-endothelial cell interactions.274