Glowing nanoparticles exposed

A research team at the Broad Institute has developed a powerful imaging method that allows them to study cancer-related proteins in living cells. Using highly stable nanoparticle probes, they can observe individual molecules for extended periods. The researchers successfully tracked receptors as they moved around cell membranes, attached to other receptors, and interacted to change cell signalling. 

Their findings, published in Cell, illustrate the method's potential for exploring various receptors and improving drug screening. Study leader Sam Peng noted that the probes can reveal the complete lifespan of these molecules in their natural environment. Unlike traditional dyes that burn out quickly, the new up converting nanoparticles provide long-lasting signals, allowing scientists to track multiple targets simultaneously. 

Focusing on the EGFR family of receptors linked to cancer, the researchers customized their probes to observe EGFR, HER2, and HER3 in human cells. They found that activated EGFR receptors could remain paired for several minutes, which is important since excessive pairing can lead to cancer. Mutations in EGFR not only stabilized these pairs but also allowed them to dimerize without external triggers, aiding the understanding of cancer progression. 

The team also reported new details on how HER2 and HER3 interact. The researchers hope that others will use their method to study various proteins and plan to explore its application in understanding drug mechanisms. They aim to enhance their probes for even more efficient tracking.


Reference
by Lisa Lock 
Glowing nanoparticles exposed hidden cancer-protein behavior that could reshape drug screening
Available at https://phys.org/news/2026-05-nanoparticles-exposed-hidden-cancer-protein.html
(Assessed: 12th May 2026)