Cytokine-capture nanoparticles to quantify IL-2 concentrations within the immunological synapse during T cell activation

Abstract

The feasibility of bringing a nascent technology for detection and quantification of local cytokine concentrations on cell surfaces to market is presented in this paper. Quantum dots or fluorochrome-loaded nanoparticles are conjugated with antibodies for target analytes and with proteins that allow nanoparticle attachment to the surface of T cells. A second labeled monoclonal antibody is introduced to detect the presence of any captured-cytokines using 3D fluorescent microscopy or flow cytometry. Microscopy of DO.11 cells labeled with cytokinecapture particles have shown successful detection of exogenous IL2. A comparison of existing patents with cytokine-capture technology revealed that although each aspect of the device is covered by prior IP, the capabilities of the technology exceed the claimed uses of the individual components. A preliminary market research for cytokine-capture technology applications resulted in dismissing the immunoassay industry as a target market. However, T cell monitoring was identified as a far more lucrative industry.