ASTM E 3238 : 2020

1.1This test method provides a protocol for rapid and quantitative measurement of the chemoattractant capacity of a nanoparticulate material (nanoparticles and their aggregates and agglomerates).

1.2Immune cells recruitment (by chemotaxis) plays a central role in the immune system function especially in the inflammatory process.

1.3This test method uses an in vitro model. In this model, peripheral blood human acute promyelocytic leukemia cells HL-60 are separated from control chemoattractant or test nanoparticulate material by a 3-µm pore size filter; the cell migration through the filter is monitored and quantified using the fluorescent dye calcein AM (Figs. 1 and 2).

FIG. 1Chemotaxis Chamber (Boyden Chamber)

FIG. 2Chemotaxis Assay

a (left)—Parts of the chemotaxis assay assembly.
b (right)—Procedure for testing the chemoattractant capacity of a nanoparticulate material.

1.4The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.