Copper oxide nanoparticles induces oxidative stress and liver toxicity in rats following oral exposure

Balancing Risks versus Benefits: Vitamin C Therapy versus Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Toxicity in Albino Rats' Submandibular Salivary Gland

OBJECTIVES

 This study aimed to examine the suppressive effect of the natural antioxidant vitamin C (VC) against submandibular gland toxicity induced by copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Three groups of 30 mature male albino rats (4 weeks old) weighing between 150 and 200 g were selected. The rats were randomly assigned for 6 weeks to receive: intraperitoneal injection (IP) of vehicle (control group); IP of 2.5 mg/kg body weight (bw) of CuO-NPs (CuO-NPs group); and IP of 2.5 mg/kg bw of CuO-NPs, combined with a daily oral dose of 100 mg/kg bw of VC in drinking water via gavage (CuO-NPs/VC group). The rats were euthanized, and their submandibular glands were dissected for histological evaluation, including hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry for Ki-67 and caspase-3.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

 The area expression for Ki-67 and caspase-3 was statistically analyzed using GraphPad Prism. Following analysis of variance analysis, Tukey's post hoc was used for multiple comparisons. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

 CuO-NPs caused significant cytotoxic effects on submandibular salivary gland cells in albino rats. This led to an increase in Ki-67 and caspase-3 levels compared with the control group. VC administration improved tissue histology and reduced Ki-67 and caspase-3 levels in the VC/CuO-NPs group compared with rats treated with CuO-NPs alone.

CONCLUSION

 The study revealed significant cytotoxic effects of CuO-NPs on the submandibular salivary gland of albino rats. VC effectively mitigated these toxic effects, suggesting its potential as a readily available antioxidant.

Neuroprotective Assessment of Betaine against Copper Oxide Nanoparticle-Induced Neurotoxicity in the Brains of Albino Rats: A Histopathological, Neurochemical, and Molecular Investigation

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) are commonly used metal oxides. Betaine possesses antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. The current study aimed to investigate the neurotoxic effect of CuO-NPs on rats and the capability of betaine to mitigate neurotoxicity. Forty rats; 4 groups: group I a control, group II intraperitoneally CuO-NPs (0.5 mg/kg/day), group III orally betaine (250 mg/kg/day) and CuO-NPs, group IV orally betaine for 28 days. Rats were subjected to neurobehavioral assessments. Brain samples were processed for biochemical, molecular, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses. Behavioral performance of betaine demonstrated increasing locomotion and cognitive abilities. Group II exhibited significantly elevated malondialdehyde (MDA), overexpression of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Significant decrease in glutathione (GSH), and downregulation of acetylcholine esterase (AChE), nuclear factor erythroid 2-like protein 2 (Nrf-2), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Histopathological alterations; neuronal degeneration, pericellular spaces, and neuropillar vacuolation. Immunohistochemically, an intense immunoreactivity is observed against IL-1β and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Betaine partially neuroprotected against CuO-NPs associated alterations. A significant decrease at MDA, downregulation of IL-1β, and TNF-α, a significant increase at GSH, and upregulation of AChE, Nrf-2, and SOD. Histopathological alterations partially ameliorated. Immunohistochemical intensity of IL-1β and GFAP reduced. It is concluded that betaine neuroprotected against most of CuO-NP neurotoxic effects through antioxidant and cell redox system stimulating efficacy.

Hepatic ultrastructural alterations induced by copper oxide nanoparticles: In vivo electron microscopy study

Copper oxide nanomaterials (CuO NPs) have been widely utilized in many fields, including antibacterial materials, anti-tumor, osteoporosis treatments, imaging, drug delivery, cosmetics, lubricants for metallic coating, the food industry, and electronics. Little is known about the potential risk to human health and ecosystems. The present work was conducted to investigate the ultrastructural changes induced by 20 ± 5 nm CuO NPs in hepatic tissues. Adult healthy male Wister albino rats were exposed to 36 intraperitoneal (ip) injections of 25 nm CuO NPs (2 mg/kg bw). Liver biopsies from all rats under study were processed for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) processing and examination for hepatic ultrastructural alterations. The hepatic tissue of rats exposed to repeated administrations of CuO NPs exhibited the following ultrastructural alterations: extensive mitochondrial damage in the form of swelling, crystolysis and matrix lysis, formation of phagocytized bodies and myelin multilayer figures, lysosomal hyperplasia, cytoplasmic degeneration and vacuolation, fat globules precipitation, chromatin clumping, and nuclear envelope irregularity. The findings indicated that CuO NPs interact with the hepatic tissue components and could induce alterations in the hepatocytes with the mitochondria as the main target organelles of copper nanomaterials. More work is recommended for better understanding the pathogenesis of CuO NPs.

Hematotoxicity Induced by Copper Oxide Nanoparticles and the Attenuating Role of Giloy In Vivo

Background In line with the growing industrial applications of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) in various fields, concerns about their potentially harmful consequences on the environment, human, and animal health are increasing. Giloy is considered an alternative medicine to treat various ailments. Giloy's potential in helping manage diabetes, alleviating arthritis and joint pain, and addressing skin disorders such as eczema and acne underscores its multifaceted role in traditional medicine. Moreover, it is deemed beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety levels, promoting liver health, and potentially impacting heart health by regulating cholesterol levels. Emerging research also explores its potential in cancer prevention. This study aimed to evaluate the hematotoxicity of CuONPs and the alleviating effect of giloy in adult rats. Materials and methods In this experiment, 28 laboratory rats were used, set to four groups (7/group), as follows: control group without any dose; CuONPs group administered copper oxide nanoparticles at 300 mg/kg/day; CuONPs + giloy group dosed with CuONPs at 300 mg/kg/day plus giloy at 100 mg/kg/day; giloy group treated only with giloy at 100 mg/kg/day. All treatments were given by gastric gavage and continued for 28 uninterrupted days. Results Dosing animals with CuONPs led to significant adverse changes in the examined blood profile. In contrast, when the animals were coadministered with giloy, restoring the disturbed blood levels was observed. Conclusion Copper oxide nanoparticles at a high dose had notable hematotoxicity in laboratory rats and, supplemented with giloy, could reduce this hematological toxicity.

Copper infused fabric attenuates inflammation in macrophages

While inflammation is an important immune response for protection from infections, excessive or prolonged inflammation can lead to a variety of debilitating diseases including skin disease, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, autoimmune diseases and cancer. Inflammation is a graded response that is typically initiated when resident macrophages sense the presence of pathogens or damage in the tissue and produce inflammatory cytokines and chemokines to kill the pathogen, clear debris and dead tissue, and initiate tissue repair. Here we show that copper-infused fabrics can prevent inflammation by blocking the production of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages after being exposed to LPS, a component of bacterial cell wall. Mechanistically, we show that copper-infused fabrics can significantly reduce the NF-κB and IRF3 activation in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Given the importance of excessive inflammation in diabetes, we show that copper can reduce insulin resistance mediated by inflammatory cytokines in muscle cells. Our data show that copper infused fabrics may be useful to reduce excessive inflammation in macrophages and improve insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscles.

Mechanistic study of copper nanoparticle (CuNP) toxicity on the mouse uterus via apelin signaling

Copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) have been widely utilized in various applications. Due to its wider application, humans are at risk of its exposure. It has been reported that the exposure of CuNPs can lead to organ accumulation and affect organ toxicity. Recent study suggested that CuNPs can translocate into the uterus and affect uterine injury in rat, whereas uterine toxicity still remains unclear. The uterus is an important female organ which is required to sustain pregnancy. Thus, uterine structure and physiology are important. Therefore, this study hypothesized that CuNPs might have a toxic effect on the uterine features of mice. In this study, we have investigated the potential effects of CuNPs on the uterus of mice both in vivo and in vitro. In in vivo study, two groups of female mice were exposed to 5 and 50 mg/kg/day via oral exposure. In vivo results showed that CuNP treatment decreases the body weight and uterus weight and changes in antioxidant status with low estrogen and progesterone levels. Furthermore, CuNPs up-regulated the expression of caspase3 and down-regulated the expression of apelin receptor (APJ). Immunolocalization of apelin showed low abundance in the CuNP-treated uterus. These results suggest a poor apelin signaling in the uterus after CuNP treatment. The in vivo findings were further supported by the in vitro studies. Firstly, the uterus was cultured with 5 and 40 μg of CuNPs, and in the second in vitro experiment, the uterus was divided into 4 groups: control, 40 μg of CuNPs, 40 μg of CuNPs with apelin, and 40 μg of CuNPs with apelin receptor antagonist (ML221). In vitro study showed that CuNPs could directly induce the oxidative stress and apoptosis as well as changing antioxidant status in the uterus. The in vitro apelin 13 (APLN 13) treatments alleviated the expression of BCL2 and improved the antioxidant markers in CuNP-treated uterus. These results also provided an evidence of apelin-mediated signaling in the CuNP-treated uterus. In summary, our results present evidence that CuNPs can stimulate apoptotic pathways which may lead to uterine impairment due to weak apelin signaling.

Features of the response to subchronic low-dose exposure to copper oxide nanoparticles in rats

Copper is an essential trace element for human health and, at the same time, a major industrial metal widely used both in its elemental form and in compounds. We conducted a dose-dependent assessment of the response of outbred albino male rats to subchronic low-dose exposure to copper oxide nanoparticles administered intraperitoneally at cumulative doses of 18 and 36 mg/kg during 6 weeks to exposure groups 1 and 2, respectively. We observed disorders at different levels of organization of the body in the exposed animals, from molecular to organismal. The observed decrease in the activity of succinate dehydrogenase in nucleated blood cells gave evidence of impaired bioenergetics processes. In view of the results of the metabolomics analysis, we assume mitochondrial damage and contribution of apoptotic processes to the pathology induced by copper poisoning. We also assume neurodegenerative effects based on the assessed morphological parameters of the nervous system, results of behavioral tests, and a decreased level of expression of genes encoding NMDA receptor subunits in the hippocampus. The hepatotoxic effect noted by a number of metabolomics-based, biochemical, and cytological indicators was manifested by the impaired protein-synthesizing function of the liver and enhanced degenerative processes in its cells. We also observed a nephrotoxic effect of nanosized copper oxide with a predominant lesion of proximal kidney tubules. At the same time, both doses tested demonstrated such positive health effects as a statistically significant decrease in the activity of alkaline phosphatase and the nucleated blood cell DNA fragmentation factor. Judging by the changes observed, the cumulative dose of copper oxide nanoparticles of 18 mg/kg body weight administered intraperitoneally approximates the threshold one for rats. The established markers of health impairments may serve as a starting point in the development of techniques of early diagnosis of copper poisoning.

Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Food Packaging and Their Influence on Human Health

It is a matter of common knowledge in the literature that engineered metal oxide nanoparticles have properties that are efficient for the design of innovative food/beverage packages. Although nanopackages have many benefits, there are circumstances when these materials are able to release nanoparticles into the food/beverage matrix. Once dispersed into food, engineered metal oxide nanoparticles travel through the gastrointestinal tract and subsequently enter human cells, where they display various behaviors influencing human health or wellbeing. This review article provides an insight into the antimicrobial mechanisms of metal oxide nanoparticles as essential for their benefits in food/beverage packaging and provides a discussion on the oral route of these nanoparticles from nanopackages to the human body. This contribution also highlights the potential toxicity of metal oxide nanoparticles for human health. The fact that only a small number of studies address the issue of food packaging based on engineered metal oxide nanoparticles should be particularly noted.

Crocin averts functional and structural rat hepatic disturbances induced by copper oxide nanoparticles

Background

Exposure to nanoparticles became inevitable in our daily life due to their huge industrial uses. Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are one of the most frequently utilized metal nanoparticles in numerous applications. Crocin (CRO) is a major active constituent in saffron having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials.

Objectives

We designed this study to explore the probable defensive role of CRO against CuONPs-induced rat hepatic damage.

Materials and methods

Therefore, 24 adult rats were randomly distributed into 4 equal groups as negative control, CRO, CuONPs, and co-treated CuONPs with CRO groups. All treatments were administered for 14 days. The hepatotoxic effect of CuONPs was evaluated by estimation of hepatic alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase enzymes, hepatic oxidative malondialdehyde and antioxidant glutathione reduced, serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1-beta, and nuclear factor kappa B), and expression of the apoptotic BAX in hepatic tissues; in addition, histopathological examination of the hepatic tissues was conducted.

Results

We found that concurrent CRO supplement to CuONPs-treated rats significantly averted functional and structural rat hepatic damage as documented by decreased hepatic enzymes activities, restored hepatic oxidant/antioxidant balance, decreased serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers, reversed BAX-mediated apoptotic cell death in hepatic tissues along with repair of CuONPs-induced massive hepatic structural and ultrastructural alterations.

Conclusions

It is concluded that combined CRO supplement to CuONPs-treated rats improved hepatic function and structure by, at least in part, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic mechanisms.

Larvicidal and Antifeedant Effects of Copper Nano-Pesticides against Spodoptera&amp;nbsp;frugiperda (J.E. Smith) and Its Immunological Response

This study aimed to synthesize and evaluate the efficacy of CuO NPs (copper oxide nanoparticles) with varying test concentrations (10−500 ppm) against larvicidal, antifeedant, immunological, and enzymatic activities against larvae of S. frugiperda at 24 h of treatment. Copper nanoparticles were characterized by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDaX) analysis. The EDaX analysis results clearly show that the synthesized copper nanoparticles contain copper as the main element, and the SEM analysis results show nanoparticle sizes ranging from 29 to 45 nm. The CuO NPs showed remarkable larvicidal activity (97%, 94%, and 81% were observed on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th instar larvae, respectively). The CuO NPs produced high antifeedant activity (98.25%, 98.01%, and 98.42%), which was observed on the 3rd, 4th, and 5th instar larvae, respectively. CuO NPs treatment significantly reduced larval hemocyte levels 24 h after treatment; hemocyte counts and sizes changed in the CuO NPs treatment compared to the control. After 24 h of treatment with CuO NPs, the larval acetylcholinesterase enzyme levels decreased with dose-dependent activity. The present findings conclude that CuO NPs cause remarkable larvicidal antifeedant activity and that CuO NPs are effective, pollution-free green nano-insecticides against S. frugiperda.

An overview of synthesis, characterization, applications and associated adverse effects of bioactive nanoparticles

A particle with a diameter ranging from 1 to 100 nm is considered a nanoparticle (NP). Owing to their small size and high surface area, NPs possess unique physical, chemical and biological properties as compared to their bulkier counterparts. This paper describes various physico-chemical as well as green methods that can be used to synthesize different types of NPs including carbon-based, ceramic, metal, semiconductor, polymeric and lipid-based NPs. These methods can be categorized into either top-down or bottom-up approaches. Electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, X-ray diffraction, zeta-potential instrument, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis are the techniques discussed in the characterization of NPs. This review provides an insight into the extraordinary properties of NPs that have opened the doors for endless biomedical applications like drug delivery, photo-ablation therapy, biosensors, bio-imaging and hyperthermia. In addition, NPs are also involved in improving crop growth, making protective clothing, cosmetics and energy reserves. This review also specifies adverse health effects associated with NPs such as hepatotoxicity, genotoxicity, neurotoxicity, etc., and inhibitory effects on plant growth and aquatic life. Further, in-vitro toxicity assessment assays for cell proliferation, apoptosis, necrosis and oxidative stress, as well as in-vivo toxicity assessment like biodistribution, clearance, hematological, serological and histological studies, are discussed here. Lastly, the authors have mentioned various measures that can be adopted to minimize the toxicity associated with NPs such as green synthesis, use of stabilizers, gene gun, polymer shell, microneedle capsule, etc.

Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Effects of CuO-TiO2-Chitosan-Escin Nanocomposites on Human Leukemic MOLT4 Cells

Nanocomposites comprised of CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin, which has adjustable physicochemical properties, provide a solution for therapeutic selectivity in cancer treatment. By controlling the intrinsic signaling primarily through the mitochondrial signaling pathway, we desired nanocomposites with enhanced anticancer activity by containing CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin. The metal oxides CuO and TiO2, the natural polymer chitosan, and a phytochemical compound escin were combined to form CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites. The synthesized nanocomposites were confirmed and characterized using FTIR spectroscopy, TEM, and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. A human leukemia cell line (MOLT-4) was used to assess the efficacy and selectivity of nanocomposites. Based on a cytotoxicity study, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposites had inhibition concentrations (IC50) of 13.68, 8.9, and 7.14 µg/mL against human T lymphoblast cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, respectively. Compared with untreated MOLT-4 cells, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-treated cells significantly increased (p < 0.05) caspase-3, -8, and -9 and decreased the levels of antioxidant enzymes GR, SOD, and GSH. Furthermore, MDA for lipid peroxidase and ROS levels significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the treated cells than in the untreated cells. Remarkably, CuO-TiO2-chitosan-escin nanocomposite-mediated control of cell cycles were mainly achieved through the activation of caspase-3, -8, and -9.

Effect of Copper Nanoparticles in the Diet of WKY and SHR Rats on the Redox Profile and Histology of the Heart, Liver, Kidney, and Small Intestine

The aim of this experiment was to test the effect of the partial or complete replacement of traditional CuCO₃ in the diet of rats with copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on the biochemical parameters, redox status, and histomorphometry of their tissues. Normotensive male Wistar–Kyoto rats (WKY) were allocated to three groups. Three analogous groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) were also formed. The WKY and SHR rats received copper in a standard daily dose—6.5 mg/kg CuCO₃ or CuNPs (100% replacement) or 3.25 mg/kg CuCO₃ plus 3.25 mg/kg CuNPs (50% replacement)—for 8 weeks. Next, blood, heart, small intestine, liver, and kidney samples were collected. The activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase and the content of creatinine and urea acid were measured in the plasma. The collected tissues were subjected to a histological evaluation, and redox status parameters (catalase and superoxide dismutase activity, malondialdehyde and glutathione content) were determined. The replacement of CuCO₃ with CuNPs in the diet may exacerbate the negative changes induced by hypertension in the heart, liver, and intestines. However, it seems that it is only in the case of the liver where the observed changes may be due to an increase in oxidative reactions resulting from the inclusion of CuNPs.

Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Stimulate the Immune Response and Decrease Antioxidant Defense in Mice After Six-Week Inhalation

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various industry sectors. Moreover, medical application of CuO NPs as antimicrobials also contributes to human exposure. Their toxicity, including toxicity to the immune system and blood, raises concerns, while information on their immunotoxicity is still very limited. The aim of our work was to evaluate the effects of CuO NPs (number concentration 1.40×106 particles/cm3, geometric mean diameter 20.4 nm) on immune/inflammatory response and antioxidant defense in mice exposed to 32.5 µg CuO/m3 continuously for 6 weeks. After six weeks of CuO NP inhalation, the content of copper in lungs and liver was significantly increased, while in kidneys, spleen, brain, and blood it was similar in exposed and control mice. Inhalation of CuO NPs caused a significant increase in proliferative response of T-lymphocytes after mitogenic stimulation and basal proliferative activity of splenocytes. CuO NPs significantly induced the production of IL-12p70, Th1-cytokine IFN-γ and Th2-cytokines IL-4, IL-5. Levels of TNF-α and IL-6 remained unchanged. Immune assays showed significantly suppressed phagocytic activity of granulocytes and slightly decreased respiratory burst. No significant differences in phagocytosis of monocytes were recorded. The percentage of CD3+, CD3+CD4+, CD3+CD8+, and CD3-CD19+ cell subsets in spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes did not differ between exposed and control animals. No changes in hematological parameters were found between the CuO NP exposed and control groups. The overall antioxidant protection status of the organism was expressed by evaluation of GSH and GSSG concentrations in blood samples. The experimental group exposed to CuO NPs showed a significant decrease in GSH concentration in comparison to the control group. In summary, our results indicate that sub-chronic inhalation of CuO NPs can cause undesired modulation of the immune response. Stimulation of adaptive immunity was indicated by activation of proliferation and secretion functions of lymphocytes. CuO NPs elicited pro-activation state of Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes in exposed mice. Innate immunity was affected by impaired phagocytic activity of granulocytes. Reduced glutathione was significantly decreased in mice exposed to CuO NPs.

Magneto-optical hyperthermia agents based on probiotic bacteria loaded with magnetic and gold nanoparticles

Probiotic bacteria were used as carriers of metallic nanoparticles to develop innovative oral agents for hyperthermia cancer therapy. Two synthetic strategies were used to produce the different therapeutic agents. First, the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus fermentum was simultaneously loaded with magnetic (MNPs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) of different morphologies to produce AuNP + MNP-bacteria systems with both types of nanoparticles arranged in the same layer of bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS). In the second approach, the probiotic was first loaded with AuNP to form AuNP-bacteria and subsequently loaded with MNP-EPS to yield AuNP-bacteria-EPS-MNP with the MNP and AuNP arranged in two different EPS layers. This second strategy has never been reported and exploits the presence of EPS-EPS recognition which allows the layer-by-layer formation of structures on the bacteria external wall. The AuNP + MNP-bacteria and AuNP-bacteria-EPS-MNP samples were characterized by scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV-vis spectroscopy. The potential of these two heterobimetallic systems as magnetic hyperthermia or photothermal therapy agents was assessed, validating their capacity to produce heat either during exposure to an alternating magnetic field or near-infrared laser light. The probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum has already been proposed as an oral drug carrier, able to overcome the stomach medium and deliver drugs to the intestines, and it is actually marketed as an oral supplement to reinforce the gut microbiota, thus, our results open the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies using these new heterobimetallic AuNP/MNP-bacteria systems in the frame of gastric diseases, using them, for example, as oral agents for cancer treatment with magnetic hyperthermia and photothermal therapy.

Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Stimulate the Immune Response and Decrease Antioxidant Defense in Mice After Six-Week Inhalation

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various industry sectors. Moreover, medical application of CuO NPs as antimicrobials also contributes to human exposure. Their toxicity, including toxicity to the immune system and blood, raises concerns, while information on their immunotoxicity is still very limited. The aim of our work was to evaluate the effects of CuO NPs (number concentration 1.40×10⁶ particles/cm³, geometric mean diameter 20.4 nm) on immune/inflammatory response and antioxidant defense in mice exposed to 32.5 µg CuO/m³ continuously for 6 weeks. After six weeks of CuO NP inhalation, the content of copper in lungs and liver was significantly increased, while in kidneys, spleen, brain, and blood it was similar in exposed and control mice. Inhalation of CuO NPs caused a significant increase in proliferative response of T-lymphocytes after mitogenic stimulation and basal proliferative activity of splenocytes. CuO NPs significantly induced the production of IL-12p70, Th1-cytokine IFN-γ and Th2-cytokines IL-4, IL-5. Levels of TNF-α and IL-6 remained unchanged. Immune assays showed significantly suppressed phagocytic activity of granulocytes and slightly decreased respiratory burst. No significant differences in phagocytosis of monocytes were recorded. The percentage of CD3⁺, CD3⁺CD4⁺, CD3⁺CD8⁺, and CD3^-CD19⁺ cell subsets in spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes did not differ between exposed and control animals. No changes in hematological parameters were found between the CuO NP exposed and control groups. The overall antioxidant protection status of the organism was expressed by evaluation of GSH and GSSG concentrations in blood samples. The experimental group exposed to CuO NPs showed a significant decrease in GSH concentration in comparison to the control group. In summary, our results indicate that sub-chronic inhalation of CuO NPs can cause undesired modulation of the immune response. Stimulation of adaptive immunity was indicated by activation of proliferation and secretion functions of lymphocytes. CuO NPs elicited pro-activation state of Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes in exposed mice. Innate immunity was affected by impaired phagocytic activity of granulocytes. Reduced glutathione was significantly decreased in mice exposed to CuO NPs.

Integrated in silico analysis for the identification of key genes and signaling pathways in copper oxide nanoparticles toxicity

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) are used in various industrial and commercial products due to their enhanced physicochemical properties. The vast consumption increases their exposure in the environment, thereby affecting the ecosystem. Even with the rise in research towards understanding their toxicity, the major signaling cascades and key genes involved in CuO-NPs remain elusive due to the various attributes involved (size, shape, charge, coating in terms of nanoparticles, and dose, duration, and species used in the experiment). The focus of the study is to identify the key signaling cascades and genes involved in CuO-NPs toxicity irrespective of these attributes. CuO-NPs related microarray expression profiles were screened from GEO database and were subjected to toxicogenomic analysis to elucidate the toxicity mechanism. In silico tools were used to obtain the DEGs, followed by GO and KEGG functional enrichment analysis. The identified DEGs were then analyzed to determine major signaling pathways and key genes. Module and centrality parameter analysis was performed to identify the key genes. Further, the miRNAs and transcription factors involved in regulating the genes were predicted, and their interactive pathways were constructed. A total of 44 DEGs were commonly present in all the analysed datasets and all of them were downregulated. GO analysis reveals that most of the genes were enriched in functions related to cell division and chemotaxis. Cell-cycle, chemokine, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, and p53 signaling pathways were the key pathways with Cdk1 as the major biomarker altered irrespective of the variables (dosage, duration, species used, and surface coating). Overall, our integrated toxicogenomic analysis reveal that Cdk1 regulated cell cycle and cytokine-cytokine signaling cascades might be responsible for CuO-NPs toxicity. These findings will help us in understanding the mechanisms involved in NPs toxicity.

Enthralling the impact of engineered nanoparticles on soil microbiome: A concentric approach towards environmental risks and cogitation

Nanotechnology is an avant-garde field of scientific research that revolutionizes technological advancements in the present world. It is a cutting-edge scientific approach that has undoubtedly a plethora of functions in controlling environmental pollutants for the welfare of the ecosystem. However, their unprecedented utilization and hysterical release led to a huge threat to the soil microbiome. Nanoparticles(NPs) hamper physicochemical properties of soil along with microbial metabolic activities within rhizospheric soils.Here in this review shed light on concentric aspects of NP-biosynthesis, types, toxicity mechanisms, accumulation within the ecosystem. However, the accrual of tiny NPs into the soil system has dramatically influenced rhizospheric activities in terms of soil properties and biogeochemical cycles. We have focussed on mechanistic pathways engrossed by microbes to deal with NPs.Also, we have elaborated the fate and behavior of NPs within soils. Besides, a piece of very scarce information on NPs-toxicity towards environment and rhizosphere communities is available. Therefore, the present review highlights ecological perspectives of nanotechnology and solutions to such implications. We have comprehend certain strategies such as avant-garde engineering methods, sustainable procedures for NP synthesis along with vatious regulatory actions to manage NP within environment. Moreover, we have devised risk management sustainable and novel strategies to utilize it in a rationalized and integrated manner. With this background, we can develop a comprehensive plan about NPs with novel insights to understand the resistance and toxicity mechanisms of NPs towards microbes. Henceforth, the orientation towards these issues would enhance the understanding of researchers for proper recommendation and promotion of nanotechnology in an optimized and sustainable manner.

The effect of the use of copper carbonate and copper nanoparticles in the diet of rats on the level of β-amyloid and acetylcholinesterase in selected organs

BACKGROUND

Copper has an important role in nervous system function, as a cofactor of many enzymes and in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Both the dose and the chemical form of copper can determine the impact of this element on metabolism, the neurological system and the immune system.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to determine whether and in what form the addition of copper changes the level of amyloid beta and acetylcholinesterase level in selected rat tissues.

METHODS

Thirty, healthy, male, albino Wistar rats aged 7 weeks were randomly divided into 3 groups. Three experimental treatments were used to evaluate the effects of different levels and sources of Cu (6.5 mg kg of diet) in the diet: Cu₀ - rats fed a diet without Cu supplementation; Cu_salt - rats fed a diet with CuCO₃ (6.5 mg kg of diet) during two months of feeding; Cu_NPs - rats fed a diet with Cu nanoparticles (6.5 mg kg of diet) during two months of feeding. In blood serum and tissue homogenates there rated the indicators proving the potential neurodegenerative effect and epigenetic DNA damage induced by chemical form of copper or lack of additional copper supplementation in diet were determined. There were analysed: level of acetylcholinesterase, β-amyloid, low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1, apyrimidinic endonuclease, thymidine glycosidase, alkylpurine-DNA-N-glycosylase and glycosylated acetylcholinesterase.

RESULTS

Irrespective of the form of copper added, it was found to increase acetylcholinesterase level in the brain, spleen and liver, as well as in the blood plasma of the rats. Copper in the form of CuCO₃ was found to increase acetylcholinesterase level in the kidneys. The addition of both forms of copper caused a marked increase in the plasma concentration of β-amyloid in comparison with the diet with no added Cu. The addition of both forms of copper caused a marked increase in the plasma concentration of β-amyloid in comparison with the diet with no added Cu.

CONCLUSIONS

A lack of added Cu in the diet of rats reduces the concentration of amyloid-β in the blood, whereas administration of copper, in the form of either CuNPs or CuCO₃, increases the level of this peptide in the blood. The use of copper in the form of CuNPs in the diet of rats does not increase the level of β-amyloid more than the use of the carbonate form of this element. The use of CuNPs or CuCO₃ in the diet of rats increases acetylcholinesterase level in the brain, spleen, liver, and blood. CuNPs in the diet of rats were not found to increase acetylcholinesterase level to a greater extent than Cu⁺² carbonate.

Features of Bioaccumulation and Toxic Effects of Copper (II) Oxide Nanoparticles Under Repeated Oral Exposure in Rats

BACKGROUND

Currently, the range of copper (II) oxide nanoparticles' (CuO NPs) applications is expanding and the global production of CuO NPs is increasing. In this regard, the risk of exposure of the population to this nanomaterial increases.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to investigate the patterns of bioaccumulation and toxic effects of CuO NPs after multiple oral exposures.

METHODS

The particle size was determined by scanning electron microscopy and dynamic laser light scattering. Specific surface area was measured by the method of Brunauer, Emmett, Teller. Total pore volume - by the method of Barrett, Joyner, Khalenda. Twenty-four hours after the final exposure, blood samples were taken for biochemical and hematological analysis, and internal organs were taken to determine their mass, copper concentration and histological analysis. The study was carried out in comparison with copper (II) oxide microparticles (CuO MPs).

RESULTS

In terms of size, surface area, and pore volume, the studied copper (II) oxide sample is a nanomaterial. The median lethal dose of CuO NPs was 13187.5 mg/kg of body weight. Bioaccumulation occurs in the stomach, blood, intestines, liver, lungs, kidneys and brain. Pathomorphological changes in the liver are manifested in the form of necrosis, degeneration, hepatitis; kidney - proliferation of mesangial cells, dystrophy; stomach - gastritis; small intestine - hyperplasia, enteritis; large intestine - colitis; lungs - hyperplasia, abscess, pneumonia, bronchitis, vasculitis. Clumps of brown pigment were detected in the kidneys, stomach and lungs. The mass of the stomach and intestines increased, the mass of the liver, kidneys and lungs decreased. Pathomorphological changes in organs are likely to cause an increase in the levels of activity of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, amylase, malondialdehyde concentration and a decrease in plasma antioxidant activity. The proportion of segmented neutrophils, the number of leukocytes are raised, the proportion of lymphocytes is reduced.

CONCLUSION

The degree of bioaccumulation and toxicity of CuO NPs are more expressed in relation to CuO MPs.

Silver, copper and copper oxide nanoparticles in the fight against human viruses: progress and perspectives

The rapid development of nanomedicine has created a high demand for silver, copper and copper oxide nanoparticles. Due to their high reactivity and potent antimicrobial activity, silver and copper-based nanomaterials have been playing an important role in the search for new alternatives for the treatment of several issues of concern, such as pathologies caused by bacteria and viruses. Viral diseases are a significant and constant threat to public health. The most recent example is the pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this context, the object of the present review is to highlight recent progress in the biomedical uses of these metal nanoparticles for the treatment and prevention of human viral infections. We discuss the antiviral activity of AgNPs and Cu-based NPs, including their actions against SARS-CoV-2. We also discuss the toxicity, biodistribution and excretion of AgNPs and CuNPs, along with their uses in medical devices or on inert surfaces to avoid viral dissemination by fomites. The challenges and limitations of the biomedical use of these nanoparticles are presented.

Hepatotoxicity of copper sulfide nanoparticles towards hepatocyte spheroids using a novel multi-concave agarose chip method

Aim: To explore the hepatotoxicity of copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuSNPs) toward hepatocyte spheroids. Materials & methods: Other than the traditional agarose method to generate hepatocyte spheroids, we developed a multi-concave agarose chip (MCAC) method to investigate changes in hepatocyte viability, morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species and hepatobiliary transporter by CuSNPs. Results: The MCAC method allowed a large number of spheroids to be obtained per sample. CuSNPs showed hepatotoxicity in vitro through a decrease in spheroid viability, albumin/urea production and glycogen deposition. CuSNPs also introduced hepatocyte spheroid injury through alteration of mitochondrial membrane potential and reactive oxygen species, that could be reversed by N-acetyl-l-cysteine. CuSNPs significantly decreased the activity of BSEP transporter by downregulating its mRNA and protein levels. Activity of the MRP2 transporter remained unchanged. Conclusion: We observed the hepatotoxicity of CuSNPs in vitro with associated mechanisms in an advanced 3D culture system.

Pulmonary Exposure to Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Leads to Neurotoxicity via Oxidative Damage and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) are widely used in pharmaceutical, food, and textile industries. They have been shown to cause lung, liver, and kidney damage. However, whether an intratracheal instillation of CuONPs would affect the brain and its underlying mechanisms remain poorly studied. In this study, healthy C57BL/6J male mice were equally subdivided into control group, low-dose (30 μg/animal), medium-dose (50 μg/animal), and high-dose (100 μg/animal) CuONPs-treated groups. Mice were subjected to acute exposure of CuONPs via intratracheal instillation. Brain histopathology, inflammatory factors, oxidative stress markers, and mitochondrial function-related protein expression were determined. Our results demonstrated that CuONPs caused a dose-dependent brain damage in mice. Histopathological changes in the brain, elevation of inflammatory factors (Tnf, Il-6), and significant alterations in oxidative stress markers were also observed after treatment with CuONPs. Intriguingly, we did not observe infiltration of macrophage cell. Moreover, Tim23, TFAM, and MFN2 protein expression levels showed the decreasing trend after treatment with CuONPs. Taken together, these results indicate that pulmonary exposure to CuONPs induces pathological damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction in the cerebral cortex, suggesting that neurotoxicity caused by pulmonary exposure of CuONPs needs more attention from the public and relevant departments.

Protective effect of methylene blue against copper oxide nanoparticle-induced neurobehavioral toxicity

Increasing attention has been paid in the past decade to assessing the toxicological effects of nanoparticles and finding a protectant; thus, the current study aimed to investigate the protective effect of the mitochondria-targeting drug methylene blue (MB) against copper oxide nanoparticle (CuO-NP)-induced neurobehavioral toxicity in rats. For this purpose, twenty rats were allocated to four equal groups (n = 5). The negative control group received distilled water intraperitoneally (IP) and Tween 80 (10 %) orally. The CuO-NP group was given a dose of 100 mg/kg of CuO-NPs, administered orally, and the positive control group was treated with 1 mg/kg MB intraperitoneally (IP). The final group was concurrently exposed to CuO-NPs and MB for 14 consecutive days. At the end of the study, each group was neurobehaviorally blind tested relative to other experimental animals, then brain tissue markers were determined and a histopathological examination was conducted. The results showed that supplementation with CuO-NPs induced neurobehavioral alterations; increased Cu content in the brain; and enhanced lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA]), protein peroxidation (protein carbonyl [PC]), and DNA oxidative damage (8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine [8-OH-dG]) compared to other treatments. In addition, a decrease was noted in the mitochondrial dehydrogenases' (aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 [ALDH2], and glutamate dehydrogenase [GDH]) activity in Cu-exposed rats. The histopathological findings revealed shrunken, pyknotic, and hypereosinophic cortical neurons and increased immune positive brown staining of caspase-3 protein, indicating apoptosis. Co-treatment with methylene blue ameliorated the neurotoxic effects of CuO-NPs; therefore, MB evidently had a powerful modulatory effect against the neurotoxicity of nano-Cu oxide via its antioxidant and mitochondrial protection properties.

Hepatotoxicity of Cadmium Telluride Quantum Dots Induced by Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The aim of this study was to investigate the detailed mechanisms of hepatotoxicity induced by cadmium telluride quantum dots (CdTe-QDs) in BALB/c mice after intravenous injection. The study investigated oxidative stress, apoptosis, and effects on mitochondria as potential mechanistic events to elucidate the observed hepatotoxicity. Oxidative stress in the liver, induced by CdTe-QD exposure, was demonstrated by depletion of total glutathione, an increase in superoxide dismutase activity, and changes in the gene expression of several oxidative stress-related biomarkers. Furthermore, CdTe-QD treatment led to apoptosis in the liver via both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. Effects on mitochondria were evidenced by the enlargement and increase in the number of mitochondria in hepatocytes of treated mice. CdTe-QDs also caused changes in the levels and gene expression of electron transport chain enzymes, depletion of ATP, and an increase in the level of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α), a regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis. The findings from this study suggest that CdTe-QDs-induced hepatotoxicity might have originated from mitochondrial effects which resulted in oxidative stress and apoptosis in the liver cells. This study provides insight into the biological effects of CdT-QDs at the tissue level and the detailed mechanisms of their toxicity in animals. The study also provides important data for bridging the gap between in vitro and in vivo testing and risk assessment of these NPs.

ZnO and CuO nanoparticles: a threat to soil organisms, plants, and human health

The progressive increase in nanoparticles (NPs) applications and their potential release into the environment because the majority of them end up in the soil without proper care have drawn considerable attention to the public health, which has become an increasingly important area of research. It is required to understand ecological threats of NPs before applications. Once NPs are released into the environment, they are subjected to translocation and go through several modifications, such as bio/geo-transformation which plays a significant role in determination of ultimate fate in the environment. The interaction between plants and NPs is an important aspect of the risk assessment. The plants growing in a contaminated medium may significantly pose a threat to human health via the food chain. Metal oxide NPs ZnO and CuO, the most important NPs, are highly toxic to a wide range of organisms. Exposure and effects of CuO and ZnO NPs on soil biota and human health are critically discussed in this study. The potential benefits and unintentional dangers of NPs to the environment and human health are essential to evaluate and expected to produce less toxic and more degradable NPs to minimize the environmental risk in the future.

Comparison of Copper Concentration Between Rejected Renal Grafts and Cancerous Kidneys

In the body, disorders in the composition and concentration of trace elements, including copper, can lead to the development of various alterations that may result in incorrect functioning of the kidneys. Data on the concentrations of copper in human kidneys are discussed; however, little is known about the concentration of trace elements within rejected renal grafts and kidneys with tumor lesions. The aim of our study was to compare the copper concentration between cancerous kidneys and rejected renal grafts with the division on renal cortex and renal medulla. Material consisted of kidneys from patients hospitalized at the Department of Urology and General Surgery and Transplantation of the Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2 at the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, north-western Poland. The study material consisted of kidneys with tumor lesions (n = 33), and renal grafts (n = 10), obtained from patients belongs to the north-western areas of Poland. The examination was performed using ICP-AES method. Regarding the pathological kidneys, excluding grafts, the concentration of Cu in the renal cortex was 52% higher than in medullary region and the difference between the compared concentrations was statistically confirmed (p < 0.05). Taking into account renal grafts, the concentration of Cu in the medulla was slightly lower than in the cortex (less than 3%). In summary, copper in rejected and cancerous kidneys tends to accumulate in higher amount in the renal cortex than medulla, what can be explained by the fact that renal corpuscles, where the first phase of filtration is performed, are located only in the cortical region of the kidney. Furthermore, renal grafts accumulate significantly less copper than kidneys with neoplastic changes, what could have been caused by immunosuppressive medicines used by the graft recipients. The lower copper concentration in renal grafts could be a consequence of the altered immune system, including inflammatory process or/and non-immune mechanisms. Additionally, cancerous and non-cancerous kidneys exhibit different perfusion rate in renal glomeruli, what can finally lead to disparity in chemical elements concentration, including copper.

The effect of the source and dosage of dietary Cu on redox status in rat tissues

The aim of this experiment was to investigate whether the amount of Cu added to the diet of rats can be reduced without adversely affecting the antioxidant status of tissues and growth, and whether copper nanoparticles can be used for this purpose. For four weeks, four experimental groups of rats were fed diets with two dosages of added Cu (standard-6.5 or 3.25 mg/kg) in two forms (standard-CuCO₃ or copper nanoparticles). Replacing the CuCO₃ supplement with CuNPs resulted in a decreased lung weight and an increased Cu content in brain, kidney and lung, intensification of lipid peroxidation processes, and weakened antioxidant defence in the lungs and kidneys. This treatment also reduced the Cu content in heart, level of lipid oxidation in the liver and testes and improved antioxidant defence in the brain. Reducing the addition of Cu to the diet from 6.5 to 3.25 mg/kg reduced lung weight and increased lipid peroxidation in the liver, heart and lungs, and also weakened antioxidant defence in the lungs and testes. This treatment also weakened the lipid peroxidation process in the spleen, small intestine and brain and strengthened the antioxidant defence of the brain and kidneys. In conclusion, replacing CuCO₃ with CuNPs and reducing the level of Cu in the diet of rats has a particularly unfavourable effect on the respiratory system, causing adverse changes in the lungs. However, these treatments have a clearly positive effect on the redox status of the liver and brain.

Redox interactions and genotoxicity of metal-based nanoparticles: A comprehensive review

Nanotechnology is a growing science that may provide several new applications for medicine, food preservation, diagnostic technologies, and sanitation. Despite its beneficial applications, there are several questions related to the safety of nanomaterials for human use. The development of nanotechnology is associated with some concerns because of the increased risk of carcinogenesis following exposure to nanomaterials. The increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that are due to exposure to nanoparticles (NPs) are primarily responsible for the genotoxicity of metal NPs. Not all, but most metal NPs are able to directly produce free radicals through the release of metal ions and through interactions with water molecules. Furthermore, the increased production of free radicals and the cell death caused by metal NPs can stimulate reduction/oxidation (redox) reactions, leading to the continuous endogenous production of ROS in a positive feedback loop. The overexpression of inflammatory mediators, such as NF-kB and STATs, the mitochondrial malfunction and the increased intracellular calcium levels mediate the chronic oxidative stress that occurs after exposure to metal NPs. In this paper, we review the genotoxicity of different types of metal NPs and the redox mechanisms that amplify the toxicity of these NPs.

In vitro evaluation of copper oxide nanoparticle-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress using human embryonic kidney cells

This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by the copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) in human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK-293) cells following exposure. CuO NPs size <50 nm were used in this study. HEK-293 cell cultures were exposed to different concentrations of CuO NPs between 3 µg/ml and 300 µg/ml and quartz (known as cytotoxic agent) and assessed for cell viability-mitochondrial function (MTT assay), cell membrane damage (lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay), reduced glutathione (GSH), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and lipid peroxidation levels. The IC₅₀ value of NPs was found to be 65.5 µg/ml. Exposure of HEK cells to CuO NPs (10-300 µg/ml) resulted in concentration-dependent cell membrane damage, increased production of IL-8, increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and decreased intracellular GSH levels. The significant increases in IL-8, TBARS, and LDH levels along with decreased GSH levels indicated induction of oxidative stress in cells. Our preliminary data suggest that oxidative stress might contribute to CuO NPs-induced cytotoxicity in HEK-293 cells.

Microwave induced synthesis of ZnO nanorods and their efficacy as a drug carrier with profound anticancer and antibacterial properties

In the present study, we report the microwave-induced synthesis of fluorescent zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO) and their usage as a cargo material to carry hydrophobic drug, quercetin. TEM and SEM showed the rod-shape morphology of our synthesized ZnO. XRD showed several diffraction peaks correspond to a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The optical and chemical natures of these nanorods were also confirmed from the UV-vis (showed a distinct absorption bands from 361 to 395 nm) and FTIR spectrum (showed absorption band specific to Zn-O stretching). The synthesized ZnO also showed fluorescence emission at around 550 nm when excited under UV irradiation. Quercetin was loaded onto ZnO surface via employing a metal ion-ligand coordination bond, (ZnO/QR), which exhibit pH-sensitive release behavior. ZnO/QR displayed superior drug loading content (42%) and loading efficiency (72.4%). in vitro assays showed that ZnO/QR exhibited higher anticancer, as well as antibacterial activities compared with free quercetin and ZnO. All these results highlight the synthesis of ZnO nanorods under microwave irradiation, which can be used as a plausible therapeutic option for bioimaging and drug delivery purpose.

CuO nanoparticle penetration through intact and damaged human skin

Trans-dermal in vitro study of CuO nanoparticles in contact with intact and damaged human skin using a Franz cell model.