Lionel Maurizi, IS2M

Due to their structure, size, and chemical composition, nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit intrinsic properties that make them particularly attractive for applications in nanomedicine. Their nanoscale dimensions enable interactions with biological systems, typically through injection or direct contact, which also raises important concerns regarding nanomaterial-induced toxicity. For these applications, NPs are often engineered through surface functionalization with polymers, biomolecules, or core–shell architectures to enhance their interactions with biological environments. Such modifications can improve colloidal stability, immune evasion, and targeting efficiency. Importantly, surface chemistry plays a central role in governing biological responses, which may be either beneficial or detrimental depending on the context.

Throughout my research projects, collaborations, and supervisory activities, my work focuses on the synthesis of inorganic nanoparticles, primarily based on metals and metal oxides (e.g. gold, iron oxide …), exhibiting innovative physicochemical properties for the development of theranostic nanovectors. To optimize their performance and adaptability within biological environments, these NPs are systematically surface-functionalized with relevant organic molecules. The resulting nanohybrids are subsequently evaluated in nanomedicine-related contexts, including medical imaging, cellular biology, and interactions at the bio–nano interface, particularly with biological fluids and proteins.

Two main research objectives have emerged, structuring my scientific approach to nanomedicine :

1. To design NP synthesis strategies that meet biological constraints. Materials science should not constitute a limiting factor in the development of nanomedicine.

2. To elucidate protein adsorption phenomena at the bio-nano interface in biological fluids, which represent a critical parameter for controlling NP biological identity and fate.