Nanoparticles can interact with cell membranes in several ways, leading to damage. Some mechanisms include:
1. Physical Interaction: Nanoparticles can physically disrupt the lipid bilayer of the membrane, causing structural damage. 2. Chemical Interaction: Reactive nanoparticles can induce oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage lipids, proteins, and DNA. 3. Electrostatic Interaction: Charged nanoparticles can interact with the charged components of the membrane, potentially causing destabilization.