As functionalities and levels of complexity in nanomaterials have increased, unprecedented control over microbes has been enabled, as well. In addition to being pathogens and relevant to the human microbiome, microbes are key players for sustainable biotechnology. To overcome current constraints, mechanistic understanding of nanomaterials' physicochemical characteristics and parameters at the nano-bio interface affecting nanomaterial-microbe crosstalk is required. In this Perspective, we describe key nanomaterial parameters and biological outputs that enable controllable microbe-nanomaterial interactions while minimizing design complexity. We discuss the role of biomolecule coronas, including the problem of nanoantibiotic resistance, and speculate on the effects of nanomaterial-microbe complex formation on the outcomes and fates of microbial pathogens. We close by summarizing our current knowledge and noting areas that require further exploration to overcome current limitations for next-generation practical applications of nanotechnology in medicine and agriculture.
Tannic acid (TA), a naturally occurring polyphenolic acid that is primarily found in grapes and green tea, exhibits potent antioxidant and anticarcinogenic characteristics. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms and targets of TA, which are responsible for cancer prevention, remain elusive. In the present study, we used TA-functionalized magnetite nanoparticles to identify pyruvate kinase isoenzyme M2 (PKM2) as the direct target of TA. We report that TA selectively inhibits the pyruvate kinase activity of PKM2, rather than protein kinase activity and PKM2 expression, to suppress colorectal cancer (CRC) cell proliferation. Furthermore, we had discovered that lysine residue 433 (K433) is a selective druggable site. Through direct binding to lysine residue 433, TA triggers the dissociation of PKM2 tetramers and further blocks the metabolic activity of PKM2. Notably, TA has no effect on PKM1 activity as TA does not bind to it. Taken together, these findings show that TA is worthy of consideration as a promising PKM2 inhibitor for the prevention of CRC.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.