Enhanced genotoxicity of silver nanoparticles in DNA repair deficient Mammalian cells

Comparative assessment of silver nanoparticle and silver nitrate toxicities in Mytilus galloprovincialis

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and Ag+ ions are both detected in aquatic environments, posing potential risks to marine ecosystems. Mytilus galloprovincialis is an effective model for monitoring marine environments. In this study, AgNPs were synthesized using a chemical approach, and to distinguish the toxicological effects of AgNPs and AgNO3 in M. galloprovincialis, experiments were conducted using various treatments (control, AgNO3, AgNPs, and AgNPs + cysteine). Our findings revealed that the uptake rate of AgNPs and AgNO3 was different, they predominantly accumulated in the hepatopancreas and gills. qRT-PCR analysis showed varying degrees of alterations in immune genes of HSPA12A, TCTP, sHSP22, sHSP24.1, P63, Bcl-2, and Ras. Histopathological analysis demonstrated disrupted epithelial cell arrangements and connective tissue damage in the hepatopancreas, with the AgNPs exhibiting the most severe damage compared to AgNO3. In addition, AgNPs significantly induced oxidative stress in hemocytes compared to AgNO3, resulting in elevated apoptosis rates. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the AgNPs and AgNO3 interactions in marine environments and provide a theoretical basis for the evaluation of marine pollution and biomonitoring strategies.

Investigation of synergistic effects of silver nanoparticles with sorafenib on in vitro prostate and head and neck cancer models

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and hypopharyngeal cancer is a rare aggressive malignant cancer. Since conventional cancer treatments have side effects, most of the current studies are directed towards finding innovative approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In recent years, research has focussed on the anticancer properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synergistic effects of AgNPs and sorafenib have been studied, however, their impacts on PC3 and FaDu cells have not been studied yet. In this study, AgNPs and sorafenib were applied individually and together to both cell types, their effects were examined at cellular and molecular levels. Cell viability was measured by CVDK-8 assay. Apoptosis was measured colorimetrically and changes in Caspase-3 levels were identified with western blot analysis. Cell viability in AgNPs and sorafenib individual groups was decreased concentration-dependent in both cells. AgNPs-Sorafenib combination was more effective in inhibiting the cell viability in FaDu cells compared to PC3 cells. According to Western blot analysis, a significant change in apoptosis was observed in the AgNPs and AgNPs-Sorafenib groups in FaDu cells, while not observed in the sorafenib group. The findings of this study will provide new perspectives on nanocarrier drug systems.

Transcriptomic investigation of NP toxicity on HepaRG spheroids

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) are commonly used nanomaterials, however concerns have been raised about their toxicity. Although a few studies have reported the toxicity of NPs on cells, they have generally been restricted to a limited variety of NPs, inappropriate cell lines, or culture methods. Thus, the adverse effects remain inadequately understood, necessitating further analysis. This study focuses on assessing the impacts of diverse NPs of varying materials and sizes on HepaRG spheroids to determine the genes that respond to acute NP toxicity. HepaRG cells, the most appropriate alternative to primary hepatocytes, were cultured in 3D spheroids to better mimic the cellular microenvironment of the liver. To elucidate the toxicity mechanisms of NPs on HepaRG spheroids, transcriptome analysis was conducted by using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Among all NPs, lowest and highest numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found for 40 nm AuNP (118 genes) and InP/ZnS (1904 genes), respectively. Remarkably, processes such as drug metabolism, sensitivity to metal ions, oxidative stress, endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and apoptosis consistently exhibited significant enrichment across all NPs of different materials. Pathways related to stress responses of the cells such as the MAPK, p53 and mTOR pathways are found to be dysregulated upon exposure to various NPs. The genes that are common and unique between DEGs of different NPs were identified. These results provide novel insights into the toxicological mechanisms of NPs on HepaRG spheroids.

Investigation the apoptotic effect of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on MDA-MB 231 breast cancer epithelial cells via signaling pathways

Background

The discovery of novel cancer therapeutic strategies leads to the development of nanotechnology-based methods for cancer treatment. Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have garnered considerable interest owing to their size, shape, and capacity to modify chemical, optical, and photonic properties. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Ag-NPs on inducing of apoptosis in MDA-MB 231 cells by examining specific signaling pathways.

Materials and methods

The cytotoxicity of Ag-NPs was determined using an MTT assay in MDA-MB 231 cells. The apoptotic effects were assessed using the Annexin-V/PI assay. Real-time PCR and western blotting were conducted to analyze the expression of apoptosis-related genes and proteins, respectively. Levels of ERK1/2 and cyclin D1 were measured using ELISA. Cell cycle assay was determined by flow cytometry. Cell migration was evaluated by scratch assay.

Results

The results revealed that Ag-NPs triggered apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in MDA-MB 231 cells. The expression level of Bax (pro-apoptotic gene) was increased, while Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic gene) expression was decreased. Increased apoptosis was correlated with increased levels of p53 and PTEN. Additionally, notable alterations were observed in protein expression related to the Janus kinase/Signal transducers (JAK/STAT) pathway, including p-AKT. Additionally, reduced expression of h-TERT was observed following exposure to Ag-NPs. ELISA results demonstrated a significant reduction in p-ERK/Total ERK and cyclin D1 levels in Ag-NPs-exposed MDA-MB 231 cells. Western blotting analysis also confirmed the reduction of p-ERK/Total ERK and cyclin D1. Decreased level of cyclin D is associated with suppression of cell cycle progression. The migratory ability of MDA-MB-231 cells was reduced upon treatment with Ag-NPs.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed that Ag-NPs influenced the proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle, and migration in MDA-MB 231 cells, possibly by modulating protein expression of the AKT/ERK/Cyclin D1 axis.

Molecular mechanism of the uptake and toxicity of EGF-LipoAgNPs in EGFR-overexpressing cancer cells

The surface of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is characterized by high reactivity resulting in prooxidative and cytotoxic properties. These effects are observed both in normal and in cancer cells, which overexpress the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR). In our previous paper, we have demonstrated that, with the use of liposomes labeled with the Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), it is possible to direct the toxic effect of AgNPs in EGFR-overexpressing cells. Unfortunately, the mechanism of uptake and toxicity induction by such liposomes is still unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the impact of EGF-LipoAgNPs on certain genes related to endocytosis and toxicity induction by such liposomes in human lung (A549) and tongue (SCC-15) cancer cells. The siRNA knock-out gene method was used in this study to determine the engagement of EGFR in this process. The confocal microscopy study revealed that the number of liposomes in the cytoplasm of the A549^EGFR- and SCC-15^EGFR- cells was lowered by 51.99 × 10³ RFU and 138.50 × 10³ RFU, respectively, proving the crucial role of EGFR in the liposome uptake. Moreover, the expression of the SHH and ATM genes was significantly increased, whereas the expression of the NRF2 gene was decreased after the treatment with EGF-LipoAgNPs and native AgNPs. Furthermore, the expression of the CLTC, AP2M1, CAV1, and SH3GLB1 genes indicated that the tested liposomes are uptaken via the clathrin-dependent pathway with engagement of the AP-2 complex and endophilin in this process. Summarizing, the created targeted delivery system of AgNPs causes an increase in the prooxidative and toxic effect of such NPs and has an impact on endocytosis regulatory genes, especially those related to the clathrin-mediated endocytosis.

Nanosafety: An Evolving Concept to Bring the Safest Possible Nanomaterials to Society and Environment

The use of nanomaterials has been increasing in recent times, and they are widely used in industries such as cosmetics, drugs, food, water treatment, and agriculture. The rapid development of new nanomaterials demands a set of approaches to evaluate the potential toxicity and risks related to them. In this regard, nanosafety has been using and adapting already existing methods (toxicological approach), but the unique characteristics of nanomaterials demand new approaches (nanotoxicology) to fully understand the potential toxicity, immunotoxicity, and (epi)genotoxicity. In addition, new technologies, such as organs-on-chips and sophisticated sensors, are under development and/or adaptation. All the information generated is used to develop new in silico approaches trying to predict the potential effects of newly developed materials. The overall evaluation of nanomaterials from their production to their final disposal chain is completed using the life cycle assessment (LCA), which is becoming an important element of nanosafety considering sustainability and environmental impact. In this review, we give an overview of all these elements of nanosafety.

Incorporation of Low Concentrations of Gold Nanoparticles: Complex Effects on Radiation Response and Fate of Cancer Cells

(1) Background: In oncology research, a long-standing discussion exists about pros and cons of metal nanoparticle-enhanced radiotherapy and real mechanisms behind the tumor cell response to irradiation (IR) in presence of gold nanoparticles (GNPs). A better understanding of this response is, however, necessary to develop more efficient and safety nanoparticle (NP) types designed to disturb specific processes in tumor cells. (2) Aims and Methods: We combined 3D confocal microscopy and super-resolution single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) to analyze, at the multiscale, the early and late effects of 10 nm-GNPs on DNA double strand break (DSB) induction and repair in tumor cells exposed to different doses of photonic low-LET (linear energy transfer) radiation. The results were correlated to different aspects of short and long-term cell viability. SkBr3 breast cancer cells (selected for the highest incidence of this cancer type among all cancers in women, and because most breast tumors are treated with IR) were incubated with low concentrations of GNPs and irradiated with ⁶⁰Co γ-rays or 6 MV X-rays. In numerous post-irradiation (PI) times, ranging from 0.5 to 24 h PI, the cells were spatially (3D) fixed and labeled with specific antibodies against γH2AX, 53BP1 and H3K9me3. The extent of DSB induction, multi-parametric micro- and nano-morphology of γH2AX and 53BP1 repair foci, DSB repair kinetics, persistence of unrepaired DSBs, nanoscale clustering of γH2AX and nanoscale (hetero)chromatin re-organization were measured by means of the mentioned microscopy techniques in dependence of radiation dose and GNP concentration. (3) Results: The number of γH2AX/53BP1 signals increased after IR and an additional increase was observed in GNP-treated (GNP(+)) cells compared to untreated controls. However, this phenomenon reflected slight expansion of the G2-phase cell subpopulation in irradiated GNP(+) specimens instead of enhanced DNA damage induction by GNPs. This statement is further supported by some micro- and nano-morphological parameters of γH2AX/53BP1 foci, which slightly differed for cells irradiated in absence or presence of GNPs. At the nanoscale, Ripley’s distance frequency analysis of SMLM signal coordinate matrices also revealed relaxation of heterochromatin (H3K9me3) clusters upon IR. These changes were more prominent in presence of GNPs. The slight expansion of radiosensitive G2 cells correlated with mostly insignificant but systematic decrease in post-irradiation survival of GNP(+) cells. Interestingly, low GNP concentrations accelerated DSB repair kinetics; however, the numbers of persistent γH2AX/53BP1 repair foci were slightly increased in GNP(+) cells. (4) Conclusions: Low concentrations of 10-nm GNPs enhanced the G2/M cell cycle arrest and the proportion of radiosensitive G2 cells, but not the extent of DNA damage induction. GNPs also accelerated DSB repair kinetics and slightly increased presence of unrepaired γH2AX/53BP1 foci at 24 h PI. GNP-mediated cell effects correlated with slight radiosensitization of GNP(+) specimens, significant only for the highest radiation dose tested (4 Gy).

Assessment of genotoxicity of silver nanoparticles on lymphocyte cells of albino rats using comet assay

Silver nanoparticles, "AgNPs", represent a prominent nanoproduct, but most of the previous toxicity studies on its genotoxicity are still limited. The current study aimed to assess the genotoxicity of AgNPs on lymphocyte cells using comet assay and to study the recovery probability. It was conducted on 50 adult male albino rats divided into "Control group", 10 rats were injected intraperitoneal, "IP", with distilled water for 28 days, and "Test groups", 40 rats were injected "IP" with 13 ± 3 nm AgNPs for 28 days, subdivided into group I: 10 rats were injected with 2 mg/kg AgNPs, group Ia: 10 rats were injected with 2 mg/kg AgNPs and left for another 4 weeks without scarification, group II: 10 rats were injected with 4 mg/kg AgNPs, and group IIa: 10 rats were injected with 4 mg/kg and left for another 4 weeks without scarification. There was a highly significant decrease in head parameters with an increase in tail parameters in both groups I and II and in group II more than group I. Moreover, there was a highly significant increase in head parameters with a decrease in tail parameters in group Ia compared with the control group and group IIa. Comets were classified according to the tail intensity and according to visual scoring for DNA damage, which revealed different grades of DNA damage with a degree of reversibility after 4 weeks stoppage of exposure. It could be concluded that AgNPs were considered to cause harmful genotoxic effects to the human body in a dose-dependent manner.

The mechanism of cell death induced by silver nanoparticles is distinct from silver cations

Background

Precisely how silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) kill mammalian cells still is not fully understood. It is not clear if AgNP-induced damage differs from silver cation (Ag⁺), nor is it known how AgNP damage is transmitted from cell membranes, including endosomes, to other organelles. Cells can differ in relative sensitivity to AgNPs or Ag⁺, which adds another layer of complexity to identifying specific mechanisms of action. Therefore, we determined if there were specific effects of AgNPs that differed from Ag⁺ in cells with high or low sensitivity to either toxicant.

Methods

Cells were exposed to intact AgNPs, Ag⁺, or defined mixtures of AgNPs with Ag⁺, and viability was assessed. The level of dissolved Ag⁺ in AgNP suspensions was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Changes in reactive oxygen species following AgNP or Ag⁺ exposure were quantified, and treatment with catalase, an enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of H₂O₂ to water and oxygen, was used to determine selectively the contribution of H₂O₂ to AgNP and Ag⁺ induced cell death. Lipid peroxides, formation of 4-hydroxynonenol protein adducts, protein thiol oxidation, protein aggregation, and activation of the integrated stress response after AgNP or Ag⁺ exposure were quantified. Lastly, cell membrane integrity and indications of apoptosis or necrosis in AgNP and Ag⁺ treated cells were examined by flow cytometry.

Results

We identified AgNPs with negligible Ag⁺ contamination. We found that SUM159 cells, which are a triple-negative breast cancer cell line, were more sensitive to AgNP exposure less sensitive to Ag⁺ compared to iMECs, an immortalized, breast epithelial cell line. This indicates that high sensitivity to AgNPs was not predictive of similar sensitivity to Ag⁺. Exposure to AgNPs increased protein thiol oxidation, misfolded proteins, and activation of the integrated stress response in AgNP sensitive SUM159 cells but not in iMEC cells. In contrast, Ag⁺ cause similar damage in Ag⁺ sensitive iMEC cells but not in SUM159 cells. Both Ag⁺ and AgNP exposure increased H₂O₂ levels; however, treatment with catalase rescued cells from Ag⁺ cytotoxicity but not from AgNPs. Instead, our data support a mechanism by which damage from AgNP exposure propagates through cells by generation of lipid peroxides, subsequent lipid peroxide mediated oxidation of proteins, and via generation of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) protein adducts.

Conclusions

There are distinct differences in the responses of cells to AgNPs and Ag⁺. Specifically, AgNPs drive cell death through lipid peroxidation leading to proteotoxicity and necrotic cell death, whereas Ag⁺ increases H₂O₂, which drives oxidative stress and apoptotic cell death. This work identifies a previously unknown mechanism by which AgNPs kill mammalian cells that is not dependent upon the contribution of Ag⁺ released in extracellular media. Understanding precisely which factors drive the toxicity of AgNPs is essential for biomedical applications such as cancer therapy, and of importance to identifying consequences of unintended exposures.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12989-021-00430-1.

The Action-Networks of Nanosilver: Bridging the Gap between Material and Biology

The emergence of nanosilver (silver in nanoscale shapes and their assemblies) benefits the landscape of modern healthcare; however, this brings about concerns over its safety issues associated with an ultrasmall size and high mobility. By reviewing previous reporting details about the synthesis and characterization of nanosilver and its biological responses, a gap between materials synthesis and their biomedical uses is characterized by the insufficient understanding of the interacting and interplaying nanoscale actions of silver. To improve reporting quality and advance clinical translations, it is suggested that researchers have a comprehensive recognition of the "Indications for use" before designing innovative nanosilver-based materials and an "Action-network" concept addressing the acting range and strength of those nanoscale actions is implemented. Although this discussion is specific to nanosilver, the idea of "Indications for use" centered design and synthesis is generally applicable to other biomedical nanomaterials.

A critical review on genotoxicity potential of low dimensional nanomaterials

Low dimensional nanomaterials (LDNMs) have earned attention among researchers as they exhibit a larger surface area to volume and quantum confinement effect compared to high dimensional nanomaterials. LDNMs, including 0-D and 1-D, possess several beneficial biomedical properties such as bioimaging, sensor, cosmetic, drug delivery, and cancer tumors ablation. However, they threaten human beings with the adverse effects of cytotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and genotoxicity when exposed for a prolonged time in industry or laboratory. Among different toxicities, genotoxicity must be taken into consideration with utmost importance as they inherit DNA related disorders causing congenital disabilities and malignancy to human beings. Many researchers have performed NMs' genotoxicity using various cell lines and animal models and reported the effect on various physicochemical and biological factors. In the present work, we have compiled a comparative study on the genotoxicity of the same or different kinds of NMs. Notwithstanding, we have included the classification of genotoxicity, mechanism, assessment, and affecting factors. Further, we have highlighted the importance of studying the genotoxicity of LDNMs and signified the perceptions, future challenges, and possible directives in the field.

Antimicrobial Potential of Bioactive Metabolites and Silver Nanoparticles from Bacillus spp. and of Some Antibiotics Against Multidrug Resistant Salmonella spp

OBJECTIVES

The synthesis of nanoparticles using microorganisms and their metabolites is of increasing interest because they are potential producers of biocompatible and environmental friendly nanoparticles. Their nanoparticles can serve as potent alternatives to antibiotics against multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria. The antibacterial potential of Bacillus spp. metabolites, their silver nanoparticles (SNPs), and some antibiotics against MDR Salmonella spp. was evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antimicrobial potential of metabolites and SNPs biosynthesized from Bacillus spp. was characterized, the effect of physicochemical parameters on SNP biosynthesis, the antimicrobial activity of the SNPs, and combination of SNPs and antibiotics against MDR Salmonella strains were evaluated.

RESULTS

The bioactive metabolites of the Bacillus spp. exhibited varied antimicrobial potential against the tested MDR Salmonella spp. The metabolites were able to bioreduce silver nitrate (AgNO3) to Ag+ for SNP biosynthesis. Change in color from whitish to darkish brown and a surface plasma resonance peak of 600-800 nm were observed. The SNPs were aggregated, rods, and crystalline in shape and their sizes were 15 μm, 16 μm, and 13 μm. Carboxylic acid, amino acid, alcohol, esters, and aldehydes were the functional groups found in the biosynthesized SNPs. The antibacterial activity of BAC1-SNPs, BAC7-SNPs, and BAC20-SNPs against MDR Staphylococcus aureus 9 (MDRSA9) and MDRSA18 was 6.0-22 mm and 11-20 mm. SNPs biosynthesized at pH 7 and 10 mM AgNO3 had the highest antagonistic activity. Combination of SNPs and antibiotics exhibited the best antagonistic potential.

CONCLUSION

The metabolites and SNPs from Bacillus spp. exhibited antagonistic effects against MDR Salmonella spp. The combined SNPs and antibiotics had better antimicrobial activity.

Silver-decorated gel-shell nanobeads: physicochemical characterization and evaluation of antibacterial properties

We report on the synthesis of composite nanobeads with antibacterial properties. The particles consist of polystyrene cores that are surrounded by sulfonic gel shells with embedded silver nanoparticles. The nanocomposite beads are prepared by sulfonation of polystyrene particles followed by accumulation of silver ions in the shell layer and subsequent reduction with sodium borohydride. The resulting material has been characterized by electron microscopy, vibrational and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and several other experimental techniques. It was shown that sodium borohydride reduces silver ions embedded in the gel layer producing silver nanoparticles but also transforms a fraction of sulfonic groups in the polymer to moieties with sulfur in a lower oxidation state, likely thiols. It is hypothesized that the generated thiol groups are anchoring the nanoparticles in the gel shell of the nanobeads stabilizing the whole structure. The silver-decorated nanobeads appear to be a promising material with considerable antimicrobial activity and were tested against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The determined minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum biofilm inhibitory (MBIC) concentrations are comparable to those of non-incorporated silver nanoparticles.

Genotoxicity Assessment of Nanomaterials: Recommendations on Best Practices, Assays, and Methods

Nanomaterials (NMs) present unique challenges in safety evaluation. An international working group, the Genetic Toxicology Technical Committee of the International Life Sciences Institute's Health and Environmental Sciences Institute, has addressed issues related to the genotoxicity assessment of NMs. A critical review of published data has been followed by recommendations on methods alterations and best practices for the standard genotoxicity assays: bacterial reverse mutation (Ames); in vitro mammalian assays for mutations, chromosomal aberrations, micronucleus induction, or DNA strand breaks (comet); and in vivo assays for genetic damage (micronucleus, comet and transgenic mutation assays). The analysis found a great diversity of tests and systems used for in vitro assays; many did not meet criteria for a valid test, and/or did not use validated cells and methods in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development Test Guidelines, and so these results could not be interpreted. In vivo assays were less common but better performed. It was not possible to develop conclusions on test system agreement, NM activity, or mechanism of action. However, the limited responses observed for most NMs were consistent with indirect genotoxic effects, rather than direct interaction of NMs with DNA. We propose a revised genotoxicity test battery for NMs that includes in vitro mammalian cell mutagenicity and clastogenicity assessments; in vivo assessments would be added only if warranted by information on specific organ exposure or sequestration of NMs. The bacterial assays are generally uninformative for NMs due to limited particle uptake and possible lack of mechanistic relevance, and are thus omitted in our recommended test battery for NM assessment. Recommendations include NM characterization in the test medium, verification of uptake into target cells, and limited assay-specific methods alterations to avoid interference with uptake or endpoint analysis. These recommendations are summarized in a Roadmap guideline for testing.

Encapsulation of Biosynthesized Nanosilver in Silica Composites for Sustainable Antimicrobial Functionality

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have become known as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs is dependent on the particle size and the dispersion status. In this study, a simple and effective approach is developed for sequestering the biosynthesized AgNPs in silica composites during the gel formation of MCM-41. Composites with different Ag concentrations of 0.034% (Ag1@MCM-41), 0.151% (Ag2@MCM-41), and 0.369% (Ag3@MCM-41) are synthesized and then heated at 400 °C to produce Ag1@MCM-41H, Ag2@MCM-41H, and Ag3@MCM-41H, respectively. The samples are characterized by flame atomic absorption spectrometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, N2 physisorption, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The AgNPs are confirmed to be highly dispersed in the amorphous silica framework. The antimicrobial activity of the AgNP-silica samples is investigated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans using the cup-plate and the plate-count techniques. The results show an excellent antimicrobial effect of these samples against the studied microorganisms. Importantly, the AgNP-silica samples are found to be stable up to 58 months under ambient conditions. These stable and powerful antimicrobial composites provide a more practical and effective strategy for combating biomedical pathogens and public health threats.

Differential pulmonary in vitro toxicity of two small-sized polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated silver nanoparticles

Silver nanoparticles (AgNP), with their important properties, are being used in a range of sectors from industry to medicine, leading to increased human exposure. Hence, their toxicity potential needs to be comprehensively evaluated. It was postulated that within small-sized (≤20 nm) polyvinylpyrrolidone-coated silver nanoparticles (PVP-AgNP), minor size differences may significantly induce different toxicity profiles and involve varying cellular pathways. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the influence of differing size AgNP with 10 nm (AgNP10) and 20 nm (AgNP20) (up to 100 µg/ml), as well as to ionic silver as AgNO₃ for 24 and 48 h, using the human lung cell line A549. The effects on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, DNA damage and cell cycle dynamics were assessed. Results for both time periods showed that for low concentrations (<5 µg/ml), AgNP20 were more cytotoxic than AgNP10, however, at higher doses, AgNP10 exhibited higher toxicity. For concentrations >50 µg/ml, AgNP10 induced severe DNA damage (comet class 3-4), cell cycle arrest at G₂ phase and late-stage apoptosis, while AgNP20 induced cell cycle arrest at S phase and an increase in the percentage sub-G_1, which did not recover after 48 h, and late-stage apoptosis/necrosis. In longer-term exposures, the greater impairment in colony formation due to AgNP exposure than to silver ion supports that nanotoxicity is not exclusively due to the released ion. Data suggest that toxicity mediated by small AgNP (≤20 nm) in lung cells is not only dependent on the level of particle internalization, but also on AgNP size and concentration, which may involve varying pathways as targets.

Silver (nano)materials cause genotoxicity in Enchytraeus crypticus, as determined by the comet assay

Enchytraeids have been used in standard ecotoxicity testing for approximately 20 yr. Since adopting the standard test for survival and reproduction, a number of additional tools have been developed, including transcriptomics and enzymatic biomarkers. So far, a genotoxicity tool and endpoint have not been used; hence, the goals of the present study included optimization of the in vivo alkaline comet assay in Enchytraeus crypticus. Further, the effect of silver nanomaterial (Ag NM300K, dispersed, 15 nm) was tested and compared with silver nitrate. Hydrogen peroxide was used as a positive control. The various steps were optimized. The fully detailed standard operating procedure is presented. Silver materials caused genotoxicity, this being differentiated for the nano and non-nano forms. Silver nitrate caused genotoxicity after 3 d of exposure in a dose-related manner, although after 7 d the effects were either reduced or repaired. Ag NM300K caused higher genotoxicity after 7 d for the lowest concentration, highlighting a potential nonmonotonic dose-response effect. Overall, the comet assay showed the power to discriminate effects between materials and also toxicity at low relevant doses. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:184-191. © 2017 SETAC.

Nonconventional Hydrogen Bonds between Silver Anion and Nucleobases: Size-Selected Anion Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Density Functional Calculations

We conducted combined gas-phase anion photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional theory studies on nucleobase-silver complexes. The most probable structures of the nucleobase-Ag^- complexes were determined by comparing the theoretical calculations with the experimental measurements. The vertical detachment energies (VDEs) of uracil-Ag^-, thymine-Ag^-, cytosine-Ag^-, and guanine-Ag^- were estimated to be 2.18 ± 0.08, 2.11 ± 0.08, 2.04 ± 0.08, and 2.20 ± 0.08 eV, respectively, based on their photoelectron spectra. Adenine-Ag^- has two isomers coexisting in the experiment; the experimental VDEs of the two isomers are 2.18 and 2.53 eV, respectively. In the most probable isomers of nucleobases-Ag^-, uracil, thymine, and cytosine interact with Ag^- anion via N-H···Ag and C-H···Ag hydrogen bonds, while adenine and guanine interact with Ag^- anion through two N-H···Ag hydrogen bonds. The N-H···Ag hydrogen bonds can be characterized as medium or strong hydrogen bonds. It is found that binding sites of the Ag anion to the nucleobases are affected by the deprotonation energies and the steric effects of two adjacent X-H groups.

Nanoscale wide-band semiconductors for photocatalytic remediation of aquatic pollution

Water pollution is a serious challenge to the public health. Among different forms of aquatic pollutants, chemical and biological agents create paramount threat to water quality when the safety standards are surpassed. There are many conventional remediatory strategies that are practiced such as resin-based exchanger and activated charcoal/carbon andreverse osmosis. Newer technologies using plants, microorganisms, genetic engineering, and enzyme-based approaches are also proposed for aquatic pollution management. However, the conventional technologies have shown impending inadequacies. On the other hand, new bio-based techniques have failed to exhibit reproducibility, wide specificity, and fidelity in field conditions. Hence, to solve these shortcomings, nanotechnology ushered a ray of hope by applying nanoscale zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and tungsten oxide (WO₃) particles for the remediation of water pollution. These nanophotocatalysts are active, cost-effective, quicker in action, and can be implemented at a larger scale. These nanoparticles are climate-independent, assist in complete mineralization of pollutants, and can act non-specifically against chemically and biologically based aquatic pollutants. Photocatalysis for environmental remediation depends on the availability of solar light. The mechanism of photocatalysis involves the formation of electron-hole pairs upon light irradiations at intensities higher than their band gap energies. In the present review, different methods of synthesis of nanoscale ZnO, TiO₂, and WO₃ as well as their structural characterizations have been discussed. Photodegradation of organic pollutants through mentioned nanoparticles has been reviewed with recent advancements. Enhancing the efficacy of photocatalysis through doping of TiO₂ and ZnO nanoparticles with non-metals, metals, and metal ions has also been documented in this report.

DNA-dependent protein kinase modulates the anti-cancer properties of silver nanoparticles in human cancer cells

Silver nanoparticles (Ag-np) were reported to be toxic to eukaryotic cells. These potentially detrimental effects of Ag-np can be advantageous in experimental therapeutics. They are currently being employed to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of cancer drugs. In this study, we demonstrate that Ag-np treatment trigger the activation of DNA-PKcs and JNK pathway at selected doses, presumably as a physiologic response to DNA damage and repair in normal and malignant cells. Ag-np altered the telomere dynamics by disrupting the shelterin complex located at the telomeres and telomere lengths. The genotoxic effect of Ag-np was not restricted to telomeres but the entire genome as Ag-np induced γ-H2AX foci formation, an indicator of global DNA damage. Inhibition of DNA-PKcs activity sensitised the cancer cells towards the cytotoxicity of Ag-np and substantiated the damaging effect of Ag-np at telomeres in human cancer cells. Abrogation of JNK mediated DNA repair and extensive damage of telomeres led to greater cell death following Ag-np treatment in DNA-PKcs inhibited cancer cells. Collectively, this study suggests that improved anti-proliferative and cytotoxic effects of Ag-np treatment in cancer cells can be achieved by the inhibition of DNA-PKcs.

Heterogeneous Responses of Ovarian Cancer Cells to Silver Nanoparticles as a Single Agent and in Combination with Cisplatin

We investigated the effects of silver nanoparticle (AgNP) exposure in three ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780, SKOV3, and OVCAR3). We found that AgNPs were highly cytotoxic toward A2780 and SKOV3 cells but OVCAR3 cells were less sensitive to AgNPs. In agreement with the cytotoxicity data, AgNPs caused DNA damage in A2780 and SKOV3 cells, but not in OVCAR3 cells. A2780 and SKOV3 showed higher levels of basal reactive oxygen species (ROS) relative to OVCAR3 cells. AgNP exposure increased ROS levels in both A2780 and SKOV3 cells, but not in OVCAR3 cells. We found that the heterogeneous cytotoxicity was specific to the uptake of intact particles and was not due to differences in sensitivity to silver ions. Furthermore, the combination of AgNPs and standard-of-care platinum therapy, cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II), CDDP), was synergistic for treatment of A2780 andOVCAR3 cells and the combination of AgNPs and CDDP showed a favorable dose reduction in all cell lines tested. These results provide insight into potential applications of AgNPs for treatment of ovarian cancer.

Cancer cells that survive checkpoint adaptation contain micronuclei that harbor damaged DNA

We have examined the relationship between checkpoint adaptation (mitosis with damaged DNA) and micronuclei. Micronuclei in cancer cells are linked to genomic change, and may induce chromothripsis (chromosome shattering). We measured the cytotoxicity of the cancer drug cisplatin in M059K (glioma fibroblasts, IC50 15 μM). Nearly 100% of M059K cells were positive for histone γH2AX staining after 48 h treatment with a cytotoxic concentration of cisplatin. The proportion of micronucleated cells, as confirmed by microscopy using DAPI and lamin A/C staining, increased from 24% to 48%, and the total micronuclei in surviving cells accumulated over time. Promoting entry into mitosis with a checkpoint inhibitor increased the number of micronuclei in cells whereas blocking checkpoint adaptation with a Cdk inhibitor reduced the number of micronuclei. Interestingly, some micronuclei underwent asynchronous DNA replication, relative to the main nuclei, as measured by deoxy-bromo-uracil (BrdU) staining. These micronuclei stained positive for histone γH2AX, which was linked to DNA replication, suggesting that micronuclei arise from checkpoint adaptation and that micronuclei may continue to damage DNA. By contrast the normal cell line WI-38 did not undergo checkpoint adaptation when treated with cisplatin and did not show changes in micronuclei number. These data reveal that the production of micronuclei by checkpoint adaptation is part of a process that contributes to genomic change.

Emerging metrology for high-throughput nanomaterial genotoxicology

The rapid development of the engineered nanomaterial (ENM) manufacturing industry has accelerated the incorporation of ENMs into a wide variety of consumer products across the globe. Unintentionally or not, some of these ENMs may be introduced into the environment or come into contact with humans or other organisms resulting in unexpected biological effects. It is thus prudent to have rapid and robust analytical metrology in place that can be used to critically assess and/or predict the cytotoxicity, as well as the potential genotoxicity of these ENMs. Many of the traditional genotoxicity test methods [e.g. unscheduled DNA synthesis assay, bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) test, etc.,] for determining the DNA damaging potential of chemical and biological compounds are not suitable for the evaluation of ENMs, due to a variety of methodological issues ranging from potential assay interferences to problems centered on low sample throughput. Recently, a number of sensitive, high-throughput genotoxicity assays/platforms (CometChip assay, flow cytometry/micronucleus assay, flow cytometry/γ-H2AX assay, automated 'Fluorimetric Detection of Alkaline DNA Unwinding' (FADU) assay, ToxTracker reporter assay) have been developed, based on substantial modifications and enhancements of traditional genotoxicity assays. These new assays have been used for the rapid measurement of DNA damage (strand breaks), chromosomal damage (micronuclei) and for detecting upregulated DNA damage signalling pathways resulting from ENM exposures. In this critical review, we describe and discuss the fundamental measurement principles and measurement endpoints of these new assays, as well as the modes of operation, analytical metrics and potential interferences, as applicable to ENM exposures. An unbiased discussion of the major technical advantages and limitations of each assay for evaluating and predicting the genotoxic potential of ENMs is also provided.

Effects of silver nanoparticles on human dermal fibroblasts and epidermal keratinocytes

Biomedical application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been rapidly increasing. Owing to their strong antimicrobial activity, AgNPs are used in dermatology in the treatment of wounds and burns. However, recent evidence for their cytotoxicity gives rise to safety concerns. This study was undertaken as a part of an ongoing programme in our laboratory to develop a topical agent for wound healing. Here, we investigated the potential toxicity of AgNPs using normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) with the aim of comparing the effects of AgNPs and ionic silver (Ag-I). Besides the effect of AgNPs and Ag-I on cell viability, the inflammatory response and DNA damage in AgNPs and Ag-I–treated cells were examined. The results showed that Ag-I were significantly more toxic than AgNPs both on NHDF and NHEK. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of AgNPs and Ag-I did not induce DNA strand breaks and did not affect inflammatory markers, except for a transient increase in interleukin 6 levels in Ag-I–treated NHDF. The results showed that AgNPs are more suitable for the intended application as a topical agent for wound healing up to the concentration 25 µg/mL.

Cytotoxicity of glass ionomer cements containing silver nanoparticles

BACKGROUND

Some studies have investigated the possibility of incorporating silver nanoparticles (NAg) into dental materials to improve their antibacterial properties. However, the potential toxic effect of this material on pulp cells should be investigated in order to avoid additional damage to the pulp tissue. This study evaluated the cytotoxicity of conventional and resin-modified glass ionomer cements (GIC) with and without addition of NAg.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

NAg were added to the materials at two different concentrations by weight: 0.1% and 0.2%. Specimens with standardized dimensions were prepared, immersed in 400 µL of culture medium and incubated at 37°C and 5% CO2 for 48 h to prepare GIC liquid extracts, which were then incubated in contact with cells for 48 h. Culture medium and 0.78% NAg solution were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. Cell viability was determined by MTT and Trypan Blue assays. ANOVA and the Tukey test (α=0.05) were used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Both tests revealed a significant decrease in cell viability in all groups of resin modified cements (p<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between groups with and without NAg (p>0.05). The differences in cell viability between any group of conventional GIC and the negative control were not statistically significant (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

NAg did not affect the cytotoxicity of the GIC under evaluation.

KEY WORDS

Glass ionomer cements, totoxicity, cell culture techniques, nanotechnology, metal nanoparticles.

Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of silver nanoparticles of different sizes in CHO-K1 and CHO-XRS5 cell lines

Nanoparticles (NPs) have been used in a range of products due to their unique properties. Nevertheless, these NPs can cause adverse biological effects and because of that, there is a great concern about the health and environmental risks related to their use. Recently, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) have been used in a variety of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity studies, but there are still controversies regarding the association between the size and the toxicity of these particles. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of Ag NPs (10 and 100 nm) in two different cell lines, CHO-K1 and CHO-XRS5, by performing cell viability assay (XTT), clonogenic assay, micronucleus test, comet assay, as well as by investigating the cell cycle kinetics using the flow cytometry. Cell cultures were exposed to different concentrations of AgNPs (0.025-5.0 μg/ml) for 24 h. Our results indicated that cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by the 100 nm-Ag NPs were greater than those induced by the 10 nm-Ag NPs for both cell lines, which suggests that the exposure to greater size particles (100 nm) can cause more adverse biological effects than the exposure to the smaller ones (10 nm).

Differential cytotoxic and radiosensitizing effects of silver nanoparticles on triple-negative breast cancer and non-triple-negative breast cells

Identification of differential sensitivity of cancer cells as compared to normal cells has the potential to reveal a therapeutic window for the use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a therapeutic agent for cancer therapy. Exposure to AgNPs is known to cause dose-dependent toxicities, including induction of oxidative stress and DNA damage, which can lead to cell death. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtypes are more vulnerable to agents that cause oxidative stress and DNA damage than are other breast cancer subtypes. We hypothesized that TNBC may be susceptible to AgNP cytotoxicity, a potential vulnerability that could be exploited for the development of new therapeutic agents. We show that AgNPs are highly cytotoxic toward TNBC cells at doses that have little effect on nontumorigenic breast cells or cells derived from liver, kidney, and monocyte lineages. AgNPs induced more DNA and oxidative damage in TNBC cells than in other breast cells. In vitro and in vivo studies showed that AgNPs reduce TNBC growth and improve radiation therapy. These studies show that unmodified AgNPs act as a self-therapeutic agent with a combination of selective cytotoxicity and radiation dose-enhancement effects in TNBC at doses that are nontoxic to noncancerous breast and other cells.

Silver nanoparticles: correlating nanoparticle size and cellular uptake with genotoxicity

The focus of this research was to develop a better understanding of the pertinent physico-chemical properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) that affect genotoxicity, specifically how cellular uptake influences a genotoxic cell response. The genotoxicity of AgNPs was assessed for three potential mechanisms: mutagenicity, clastogenicity and DNA strand-break-based DNA damage. Mutagenicity (reverse mutation assay) was assessed in five bacterial strains of Salmonella typhimurium and Echerichia coli, including TA102 that is sensitive to oxidative DNA damage. AgNPs of all sizes tested (10, 20, 50 and 100nm), along with silver nitrate (AgNO3), were negative for mutagenicity in bacteria. No AgNPs could be identified within the bacteria cells using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), indicating these bacteria lack the ability to actively uptake AgNPs 10nm or larger. Clastogenicity (flow cytometry-based micronucleus assay) and intermediate DNA damage (DNA strand breaks as measured in the Comet assay) were assessed in two mammalian white blood cell lines: Jurkat Clone E6-1 and THP-1. It was observed that micronucleus and Comet assay end points were inversely correlated with AgNP size, with smaller NPs inducing a more genotoxic response. TEM results indicated that AgNPs were confined within intracellular vesicles of mammalian cells and did not penetrate the nucleus. The genotoxicity test results and the effect of AgNO3 controls suggest that silver ions may be the primary, and perhaps only, cause of genotoxicity. Furthermore, since AgNO3 was not mutagenic in the gram-negative bacterial Ames strains tested, the lack of bacterial uptake of the AgNPs may not be the major reason for the lack of genotoxicity observed.

Gene Expression, Protein Function and Pathways of Arabidopsis thaliana Responding to Silver Nanoparticles in Comparison to Silver Ions, Cold, Salt, Drought, and Heat

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been widely used in industry due to their unique physical and chemical properties. However, AgNPs have caused environmental concerns. To understand the risks of AgNPs, Arabidopsis microarray data for AgNP, Ag⁺, cold, salt, heat and drought stresses were analyzed. Up- and down-regulated genes of more than two-fold expression change were compared, while the encoded proteins of shared and unique genes between stresses were subjected to differential enrichment analyses. AgNPs affected the fewest genes (575) in the Arabidopsis genome, followed by Ag⁺ (1010), heat (1374), drought (1435), salt (4133) and cold (6536). More genes were up-regulated than down-regulated in AgNPs and Ag⁺ (438 and 780, respectively) while cold down-regulated the most genes (4022). Responses to AgNPs were more similar to those of Ag⁺ (464 shared genes), cold (202), and salt (163) than to drought (50) or heat (30); the genes in the first four stresses were enriched with 32 PFAM domains and 44 InterPro protein classes. Moreover, 111 genes were unique in AgNPs and they were enriched in three biological functions: response to fungal infection, anion transport, and cell wall/plasma membrane related. Despite shared similarity to Ag⁺, cold and salt stresses, AgNPs are a new stressor to Arabidopsis.

Carboxylated short single-walled carbon nanotubes but not plain and multi-walled short carbon nanotubes show in vitro genotoxicity

Long carbon nanotubes (CNTs) resemble asbestos fibers due to their high length to diameter ratio and they thus have genotoxic effects. Another parameter that might explain their genotoxic effects is contamination with heavy metal ions. On the other hand, short (1-2 µm) CNTs do not resemble asbestos fibers, and, once purified from contaminations, they might be suitable for medical applications. To identify the role of fiber thickness and surface properties on genotoxicity, well-characterized short pristine and carboxylated single-walled (SCNTs) and multi-walled (MCNTs) CNTs of different diameters were studied for cytotoxicity, the cell's response to oxidative stress (immunoreactivity against hemoxygenase 1 and glutathione levels), and in a hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) assay using V79 chinese hamster fibroblasts and human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. DNA repair was demonstrated by measuring immunoreactivity against activated histone H2AX protein. The number of micronuclei as well as the number of multinucleated cells was determined. CNTs acted more cytotoxic in V79 than in A549 cells. Plain and carboxylated thin (<8 nm) SCNTs and MCNTs showed greater cytotoxic potential and carboxylated CNTs showed indication for generating oxidative stress. Multi-walled CNTs did not cause HPRT mutation, micronucleus formation, DNA damage, interference with cell division, and oxidative stress. Carboxylated, but not plain, SCNTs showed indication for in vitro DNA damage according to increase of H2AX-immunoreactive cells and HPRT mutation. Although short CNTs presented a low in vitro genotoxicity, functionalization of short SCNTs can render these particles genotoxic.

PVP-coated, negatively charged silver nanoparticles: A multi-center study of their physicochemical characteristics, cell culture and in vivo experiments

PVP-capped silver nanoparticles with a diameter of the metallic core of 70 nm, a hydrodynamic diameter of 120 nm and a zeta potential of -20 mV were prepared and investigated with regard to their biological activity. This review summarizes the physicochemical properties (dissolution, protein adsorption, dispersability) of these nanoparticles and the cellular consequences of the exposure of a broad range of biological test systems to this defined type of silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticles dissolve in water in the presence of oxygen. In addition, in biological media (i.e., in the presence of proteins) the surface of silver nanoparticles is rapidly coated by a protein corona that influences their physicochemical and biological properties including cellular uptake. Silver nanoparticles are taken up by cell-type specific endocytosis pathways as demonstrated for hMSC, primary T-cells, primary monocytes, and astrocytes. A visualization of particles inside cells is possible by X-ray microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and combined FIB/SEM analysis. By staining organelles, their localization inside the cell can be additionally determined. While primary brain astrocytes are shown to be fairly tolerant toward silver nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles induce the formation of DNA double-strand-breaks (DSB) and lead to chromosomal aberrations and sister-chromatid exchanges in Chinese hamster fibroblast cell lines (CHO9, K1, V79B). An exposure of rats to silver nanoparticles in vivo induced a moderate pulmonary toxicity, however, only at rather high concentrations. The same was found in precision-cut lung slices of rats in which silver nanoparticles remained mainly at the tissue surface. In a human 3D triple-cell culture model consisting of three cell types (alveolar epithelial cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells), adverse effects were also only found at high silver concentrations. The silver ions that are released from silver nanoparticles may be harmful to skin with disrupted barrier (e.g., wounds) and induce oxidative stress in skin cells (HaCaT). In conclusion, the data obtained on the effects of this well-defined type of silver nanoparticles on various biological systems clearly demonstrate that cell-type specific properties as well as experimental conditions determine the biocompatibility of and the cellular responses to an exposure with silver nanoparticles.

The Apoptotic Effect of Plant Based Nanosilver in Colon Cancer Cells is a p53 Dependent Process Involving ROS and JNK Cascade

Here, we report the p53 dependent mitochondria-mediated apoptotic mechanism of plant derived silver-nanoparticle (PD-AgNPs) in colorectal cancer cells (CRCs). PD-AgNPs was synthesized by reduction of AgNO3 with leaf extract of a medicinal plant periwinkle and characterized. Uptake of PD-AgNPs (ξ - 2.52 ± 4.31 mV) in HCT116 cells was 3 fold higher in comparison to synthetic AgNPs (ξ +2.293 ± 5.1 mV). A dose dependent increase in ROS production, activated JNK and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were noted in HCT116 but not in HCT116 p53(-/-) cells after PD-AgNP exposure. PD-AgNP-mediated apoptosis in CRCs is a p53 dependent process involving ROS and JNK cascade.

Molecular toxicity mechanism of nanosilver

Silver is an ancient antibiotic that has found many new uses due to its unique properties on the nanoscale. Due to its presence in many consumer products, the toxicity of nanosilver has become a hot topic. This review summarizes recent advances, particularly the molecular mechanism of nanosilver toxicity. The surface of nanosilver can easily be oxidized by O₂ and other molecules in the environmental and biological systems leading to the release of Ag⁺, a known toxic ion. Therefore, nanosilver toxicity is closely related to the release of Ag⁺. In fact, it is difficult to determine what portion of the toxicity is from the nano-form and what is from the ionic form. The surface oxidation rate is closely related to the nanosilver surface coating, coexisting molecules, especially thiol-containing compounds, lighting conditions, and the interaction of nanosilver with nucleic acids, lipid molecules, and proteins in a biological system. Nanosilver has been shown to penetrate the cell and become internalized. Thus, nanosilver often acts as a source of Ag⁺ inside the cell. One of the main mechanisms of toxicity is that it causes oxidative stress through the generation of reactive oxygen species and causes damage to cellular components including DNA damage, activation of antioxidant enzymes, depletion of antioxidant molecules (e.g., glutathione), binding and disabling of proteins, and damage to the cell membrane. Several major questions remain to be answered: (1) the toxic contribution from the ionic form versus the nano-form; (2) key enzymes and signaling pathways responsible for the toxicity; and (3) effect of coexisting molecules on the toxicity and its relationship to surface coating.

Synergistic effect of combined treatment with gamma-tocotrienol and statin on human malignant mesothelioma cells

The present study is the first to demonstrate the synergetic effect of statins (atorvastatin and simvastatin) and gamma-tocotrienol (γ-T3) on human malignant mesothelioma (MM). Statin + γ-T3 combinations induced greater cell growth inhibition more than each single treatment via inhibition of mevalonate pathway, a well-known target of both γ-T3 and statins. γ-T3 was necessary for endoplasmic reticulum stress markers CHOP and GRP78, whereas an intrinsic apoptotic marker, caspase 3 activation was induced only in the presence of statins. Overall, the combination of γ-T3 and statins could be useful for MM therapy and functions in a complementary style.

Responses of RAW264.7 macrophages to water-dispersible gold and silver nanoparticles stabilized by metal-carbon σ-bonds

Nanometals are currently receiving considerable attention for industrial and biomedical applications, but their potentially hazardous and toxic effects have not been extensively studied. This study evaluated the biological responses of novel water-dispersible gold (Au-NPs) and silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) stabilized by Au-C or Ag-C σ-bonds in cultured macrophages (RAW264.7), via analysis of the cell viability, the integrity of the plasma membrane, and the inflammatory and morphological properties. The cultured RAW264.7 was exposed to metal-NPs at various concentrations. The Ag-NPs showed cytotoxicity at high NP concentrations, but the cytotoxic effects of the Au-NPs were smaller than those of the Ag-NPs. For the microscopic analysis, both types of particles were internalized into cells, the morphological changes in the cells which manifested as an expansion of the vesicles' volume, were smaller for the Au-NPs compared with the Ag-NPs. For the Ag-NPs, the endocytosis abilities of the macrophages might have induced harmful effects, because of the expansion of the cell vesicles. Although an inflammatory response was observed for both the Au- and Ag-NPs, the harmful effects of the Au-NPs were smaller than those of the Ag-NPs, with minor morphological changes observed even after internalization of the NPs into the cells.