The role of specific and non-specific interactions in receptor-mediated endocytosis of nanoparticles

The role of specific and non-specific interactions in the receptor-mediated endocytosis of nanoparticles is analyzed. The characteristic time τw, the threshold Rth and optimal Ropt radii for particle endocytosis are estimated as a function of the binding energy factor C, bond elasticity factor G, and non-specific attractive/repulsive factor F at the cell–particle interface. It is shown that the contribution of F is as important as that of C and G. General and ready to use formulas are presented that can be a guide in designing nanoparticles with controlled endocytic performances.