Protocol for dynamic high-throughput cell death screening of primary phagocytes following microplastic and nanoplastic exposure

Abstract

Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) can cross epithelial barriers of the lung and/or intestine into the bloodstream. In the body, phagocytes will be exposed to plastic particles, but they are incapable of degrading them. Here, we present a protocol for high-throughput cell death screening of primary phagocytes following MNP exposure. We describe steps for isolating primary phagocytes, plating these with MNPs, and time-lapse imaging. Further, we explain detailed procedures for image analysis using the IncuCyte S3 live-cell imaging system and analysis software. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Giustarini et al.