Uptake of noncytotoxic acid-treated single-walled carbon nanotubes into the cytoplasm of human macrophage cells

Carbon-based nanostructures for cancer therapy and drug delivery applications

Synthesis, design, characterization, and application of carbon-based nanostructures (CBNSs) as drug carriers have attracted a great deal of interest over the past half of the century because of their promising chemical, thermal, physical, optical, mechanical, and electrical properties and their structural diversity. CBNSs are well-known in drug delivery applications due to their unique features such as easy cellular uptake, high drug loading ability, and thermal ablation. CBNSs, including carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, nanodiamond, graphene, and carbon quantum dots have been quite broadly examined for drug delivery systems. This review not only summarizes the most recent studies on developing carbon-based nanostructures for drug delivery (e.g. delivery carrier, cancer therapy and bioimaging), but also tries to deal with the challenges and opportunities resulting from the expansion in use of these materials in the realm of drug delivery. This class of nanomaterials requires advanced techniques for synthesis and surface modifications, yet a lot of critical questions such as their toxicity, biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and fate of CBNSs in biological systems must be answered.

In vitro toxicity of carbon nanotubes: a systematic review

Carbon nanotube (CNT) toxicity-related issues provoke many debates in the scientific community. The controversial and disputable data about toxicity doses, proposed hazard effects, and human health concerns significantly restrict CNT applications in biomedical studies, laboratory practices, and industry, creating a barrier for mankind in the way of understanding how exactly the material behaves in contact with living systems. Raising the toxicity question again, many research groups conclude low toxicity of the material and its potential safeness at some doses for contact with biological systems. To get new momentum for researchers working on the intersection of the biological field and nanomaterials, i.e., CNT materials, we systematically reviewed existing studies with in vitro toxicological data to propose exact doses that yield toxic effects, summarize studied cell types for a more thorough comparison, the impact of incubation time, and applied toxicity tests. Using several criteria and different scientific databases, we identified and analyzed nearly 200 original publications forming a "golden core" of the field to propose safe doses of the material based on a statistical analysis of retrieved data. We also differentiated the impact of various forms of CNTs: on a substrate and in the form of dispersion because in both cases, some studies demonstrated good biocompatibility of CNTs. We revealed that CNTs located on a substrate had negligible impact, i.e., 90% of studies report good viability and cell behavior similar to control, therefore CNTs could be considered as a prospective conductive substrate for cell cultivation. In the case of dispersions, our analysis revealed mean values of dose/incubation time to be 4-5 μg mL-1 h-1, which suggested the material to be a suitable candidate for further studies to get a more in-depth understanding of its properties in biointerfaces and offer CNTs as a promising platform for fundamental studies in targeted drug delivery, chemotherapy, tissue engineering, biosensing fields, etc. We hope that the present systematic review will shed light on the current knowledge about CNT toxicity, indicate "dark" spots and offer possible directions for the subsequent studies based on the demonstrated here tabulated and statistical data of doses, cell models, toxicity tests, viability, etc.

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes trigger lysosome-dependent cell death (pyroptosis) in macrophages but not in neutrophils

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been extensively investigated, and several studies have shown that multi-walled CNTs can trigger inflammation and fibrosis in animal models. However, while neutrophils are involved in inflammation, most in vitro studies have addressed macrophages. Here we explored the impact of three MWCNTs with varying morphology (i.e. long and rigid versus short and/or tangled) on primary human macrophages and macrophage-differentiated THP-1 cells versus primary human neutrophils and neutrophil-differentiated HL-60 cells. We found that long and rigid MWCNTs triggered caspase-dependent cell death in macrophages, accompanied by NLRP3 inflammasome activation and gasdermin D (GSDMD)-mediated release of pro-inflammatory IL-1β. The release of IL-1β was suppressed by disulfiram, an FDA-approved drug known to act as an inhibitor of membrane pore formation by GSDMD. Evidence of autophagic cell death was noted in macrophages exposed to higher concentrations of the long and rigid MWCNTs. Furthermore, lysosomal damage with cytosolic release of cathepsin B was observed in macrophages exposed to the latter MWCNTs. On the other hand, there was little evidence of uptake of MWCNTs in neutrophils and the cells failed to undergo MWCNT-triggered cell death. Our studies have demonstrated that long and rigid MWCNTs trigger pyroptosis in human macrophages.

Toxicological Aspects of Carbon Nanotubes, Fullerenes and Graphenes

Nanomedicines exhibit unbelievable capability in overcoming the hurdles faced in biological applications. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene-family nanomaterials and fullerenes are a class of engineered nanoparticles that have emerged as a new option for possible use in drug/gene delivery for life-threatening diseases. Their adaptability to pharmaceutical applications has opened new vistas for biomedical applications. Successful applications of this family of engineered nanoparticles in various fields may not support their use in medicine due to inconsistent data on toxicity as well as the lack of a centralized toxicity database. Inconsistent toxicological studies and lack of mechanistic understanding have been the reasons for limited understanding of their toxicological aspects. These nanoparticles, when underivatized or pristine, are considered as safe, however less reactive. The derivatized forms or functionalization changes their chemistry significantly to modify their biological effects including toxicity. They can cause acute and long term injuries in tissues by penetration through the the blood-air barrier, blood-alveolus barrier, blood-brain barrier, and blood-placenta barrier. and by accumulating in the lung, liver, and spleen . The toxicological effects are manifested through inflammatory response, DNA damage, apoptosis, autophagy and necrosis. Other factors that largely influence the toxicity of carbon nanotubes, graphenes and fullerenes are the concentration, functionalization, dimensional and surface topographical factors. Thus, a better understanding of the toxicity profile of CNTs, graphene-family nanomaterials and fullerenes in humans, animals and the environment is of significant importance, to improve their biological safety, to facilitate their wide biological application and for the successful commercial application. The exploration of appropriate cell lines to investigate specific receptors and intracellular targets as well as chronic toxicity beyond the proof-of-concept is required.

Carbon nanotube transmembrane channel formation and single-stranded DNA spontaneous internalization: a dissipative particle dynamics study

Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) transmembrane channel formation in a pure 1,2-dimyristoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (DMPC) bilayer, and the spontaneous internalization of single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) into the formed pore were simulated. A combination of computational techniques, Dissipative Particle Dynamics-Monte Carlo hybrid simulations and quantum mechanical calculations at the hybrid-DFT level, was used as a new proposal to perform DPD simulations granting specific chemical identity to the model particles. The simulated transmembrane channels showed that, in the case of pristine SWCNTs and upon increasing the nanotube length, a higher tilt angle with respect to the bilayer normal is observed and more time is needed for the nanotube to stabilize. On the other hand, for SWCNTs with polar rims an almost perpendicular orientation is preferred with less than 15° of tilt with respect to the bilayer normal once the nanotubes have pierced both monolayers. These findings are supported by experimental observations where CNTs of average inner diameters of 1.51 ± 0.21 nm and lengths in the 5-15 nm range were inserted in DOPC membranes [J. Geng, et al., Nature, 2014, 514(7524), 612-615]. Moreover, the narrower the SWCNTs, the slower the spontaneous internalization of ssDNA becomes, and ssDNA ends hydrophobically trapped inside the artificial pore. A dependence on the nucleotide content is found indicating that the higher the presence of adenine and thymine in the ssDNA chains the slower the internalization becomes, in agreement with the experimental [A. M. Ababneh, et al., Biophys. J., 2003, 85(2), 1111-1127] and predicted solvation tendency in water for nucleic acid bases.

Toxicity of Carbon Nanotubes: Molecular Mechanisms, Signaling Cascades, and Remedies in Biomedical Applications

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are the most studied allotropic form of carbon. They can be used in various biomedical applications due to their novel physicochemical properties. In particular, the small size of CNTs, with a large surface area per unit volume, has a considerable impact on their toxicity. Despite of the use of CNTs in various applications, toxicity is a big problem that requires more research. In this Review, we discuss the toxicity of CNTs and the associated mechanisms. Physicochemical factors, such as metal impurities, length, size, solubilizing agents, CNTs functionalization, and agglomeration, that may lead to oxidative stress, toxic signaling pathways, and potential ways to control these mechanisms are also discussed. Moreover, with the latest mechanistic evidence described in this Review, we expect to give new insights into CNTs' toxicological effects at the molecular level and provide new clues for the mitigation of harmful effects emerging from exposure to CNTs.

Exfoliated and water dispersible biocarbon nanotubes for enzymology applications

In this chapter, we report a simple and facile method to armor enzymes with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) which are exfoliated, and debundled using bovine serum albumin (BSA). The fabricated CNT/BSA dispersions are biofriendly, biocompatible, defect-free, and highly stable solutions. BSA gives maximum exfoliation efficiency, exceeding the 4mg/mL of CNT concentration compared to any previous reports. Further, the produced bioCNT dispersions were characterized by UV-visible, Raman, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Exfoliation and debundling of the bioCNT dispersions is possible due to the π-π interaction, hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interaction, and electrostatic attractive forces driving the adsorption of BSA on CNTs surface. Protein adsorption then makes a highly stable suspension in water that can be stored for a prolonged period. CNT dispersions are stable over a wide range of pH from 3 to 10 and at 4°C or 25°C for more than 2 months. Here, we also report the facile, inexpensive and green-chemistry method to fabricate a buckypaper (CNT paper), composed of the high packing density, self-assembled and randomly oriented bioCNTs, and these assemblies could be used in many emerging applications like air and water purification, nanocomposites, energy storage, and biosensing. Moreover, the CNT dispersions stabilized by BSA were successfully used in enzyme binding and kinetic studies and bound enzyme retained substantial catalytic activity. The current approach may facilitate bulk production of water dispersed CNTs in both academic and industrial laboratories. This is done by a simple method of stirring, which provides new opportunities for a wider range of CNT applications.

Nanotechnological Applications Hold a Pivotal Position in Boosting Stem Cells Osteogenic Activity: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

This approach was constructed to appraise the therapeutic effectiveness of a single i.v. dose of osteoblasts generated from co-culturing BM-MSCs with nano-HA, Pt-NPs, or Pt-HA-nanocomposite in osteoporotic rats. MSCs were grown, propagated in culture, and characterized. The effect of the suggested nanoplatforms on the survival, osteogenic differentiation, and mineralization of BM-MSCs was assessed by MTT assay, real-time PCR analysis, and Alizarin red S staining, respectively. Thereafter, the generated osteoblasts were employed for the treatment of ovariectomized rats. Our results revealed that the selected nanoplatforms upregulate the expression of osteogenic differentiation related genes (Runx-2 and BMP-2) significantly and enhance calcium deposition in BM-MSCs after 7 and 21 days, respectively, whereas the in vivo study validated that the infusion of the generated osteoblasts considerably downturn serum BALP, BSP, and SOST levels; upswing OSX level; and regain femur bone mineralization and histoarchitecture. Conclusively, the outcomes of this work provide scientific evidence that transplanting osteoblasts derived from differentiation of BM-MSCs in the presence of nanoplatforms in ovariectomized rats restores bone remodeling balance which constitutes a new hope for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Toxicity of nanoparticles_ challenges and opportunities

Nanomaterials (NMs) find widespread use in different industries that range from agriculture, food, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and electronics to cosmetics. It is the exceptional properties of these materials at the nanoscale, which make them successful as growth promoters, drug carriers, catalysts, filters and fillers, but a price must be paid via the potential toxity of these materials. The harmful effects of nanoparticles (NPs) to environment, human and animal health needs to be investigated and critically examined, to find appropriate solutions and lower the risks involved in the manufacture and use of these exotic materials.The vast number and complex interaction of NM/NPs with different biological systems implies that there is no universal toxicity mechanism or assessment method. The various challenges need to be overcome and a number of research studies have been conducted during the past decade on different NMs to explore the possible mechanisms of uptake, concentrations/dosage and toxicity levels. This review article examines critically the recent reports in this field to summarize and present opportunities for safer design using case studies from published literature.

Cellular Toxicity and Immunological Effects of Carbon-based Nanomaterials

BACKGROUND

Carbon nanomaterials are a growing family of materials featuring unique physicochemical properties, and their widespread application is accompanied by increasing human exposure.

MAIN BODY

Considerable efforts have been made to characterize the potential toxicity of carbon nanomaterials in vitro and in vivo. Many studies have reported various toxicology profiles of carbon nanomaterials. The different results of the cytotoxicity of the carbon-based materials might be related to the differences in the physicochemical properties or structures of carbon nanomaterials, types of target cells and methods of particle dispersion, etc. The reported cytotoxicity effects mainly included reactive oxygen species generation, DNA damage, lysosomal damage, mitochondrial dysfunction and eventual cell death via apoptosis or necrosis. Despite the cellular toxicity, the immunological effects of the carbon-based nanomaterials, such as the pulmonary macrophage activation and inflammation induced by carbon nanomaterials, have been thoroughly studied. The roles of carbon nanomaterials in activating different immune cells or inducing immunosuppression have also been addressed.

CONCLUSION

Here, we provide a review of the latest research findings on the toxicological profiles of carbon-based nanomaterials, highlighting both the cellular toxicities and immunological effects of carbon nanomaterials. This review provides information on the overall status, trends, and research needs for toxicological studies of carbon nanomaterials.

Application of carbon nanotubes in cancer vaccines: Achievements, challenges and chances

Tumour-specific, immuno-based therapeutic interventions can be considered as safe and effective approaches for cancer therapy. Exploitation of nano-vaccinology to intensify the cancer vaccine potency may overcome the need for administration of high vaccine doses or additional adjuvants and therefore could be a more efficient approach. Carbon nanotube (CNT) can be described as carbon sheet(s) rolled up into a cylinder that is nanometers wide and nanometers to micrometers long. Stemming from the observed capacities of CNTs to enter various types of cells via diversified mechanisms utilising energy-dependent and/or passive routes of cell uptake, the use of CNTs for the delivery of therapeutic agents has drawn increasing interests over the last decade. Here we review the previous studies that demonstrated the possible benefits of these cylindrical nano-vectors as cancer vaccine delivery systems as well as the obstacles their clinical application is facing.

Preparation, characterizations and in vitro cytotoxic activity of nickel oxide nanoparticles on HT-29 and SW620 colon cancer cell lines

Despite the extensive implication of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) in different fields such as biomedical science and industrial manufacturing, their effect on human cancer cells has not been elucidated. In this study, we report a simple process for the preparation of NiO-NPs. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the surface architecture and dimension of the synthesized NiO-NPs. The average diameter of the NiO-NPs was approximately 20-25 nm. We used two human colon cancer cell lines, HT-29 and SW620, to assess the nanoparticles' cytotoxicity. The MTT assay showed that the NiO-NPs reduced cell viability of HT-29 and SW620 cell lines. The results of inverted microscopy showed the highest cytotoxic activity with 600 μg/ml concentration of NiO-NPs on HT-29 cells. Western blot assay showed the downregulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and Bcl-xL proteins in HT-29 cells treated with NiO-NPs. Moreover the results demonstrated the induction of PARP (Cleaved) in NiO-NPs treated HT-29 cells which are considered the marker of apoptosis. The NiO-NPs were not demonstrated bactericidal effect on six different bacterial strains tested, implying that the NiO-NPs may not perturb the human normal gut microbiome. The results have showed the promising application of the NiO-NPs in management of cancer in near future.

Tension-Induced Translocation of an Ultrashort Carbon Nanotube through a Phospholipid Bilayer

Increasing awareness of bioeffects and toxicity of nanomaterials interacting with cells puts in focus the mechanisms by which nanomaterials can cross lipid membranes. Apart from well-discussed energy-dependent endocytosis for large objects and passive diffusion through membranes by solute molecules, other translocation mechanisms based on physical principles can exist. We show the importance of membrane tension on the translocation through lipid bilayers of ultrashort carbon nanotubes (USCNTs). By using a combination of a microfluidic setup and single chain mean field (SCMF) theory, we observed that, under membrane tension, USCNT inserted into a lipid bilayer may spontaneously nucleate an unstable local pore, allowing it to escape from the bilayer. We demonstrated that stretching of the membrane is essential for triggering this mechanism of translocation, and no translocation is observed at low membrane tension. For this purpose, a quantitative analysis of the kinetic pathway associated with USCNT translocation induced by tension was performed in a specially designed microfluidic device, simultaneously combining optical fluorescence microscopy and electrophysiological measurements. An important outcome of these findings is the identification of the way to control the nanomaterial translocation through the lipid bilayer by membrane tension that can be useful in many practical applications.

Toxicity of functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes on bone mesenchymal stem cell in rats

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising biomaterials in the medical field, especially in tissue engineering of bone. However, the use of CNTs is largely confined by its unfavorable solubility and toxicity. To improve solubility and biocompatibility of CNTs, functionalization has been proven to be an effective strategy. Although various functionalized CNTs have been extensively studied, only few CNTs have the desired qualities. We compared the toxicity of several promising functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on rat bone-marrow derived stem cells (BMSCs). Cell experiments showed that while acid oxidation (AO)-MWCNTs and Raw-MWCNTs exhibited significant toxicity on BMSCs, polyethylene glycols (PEG)-MWCNTs and hydroxyapatit (HA)-MWCNTs had favorable biocompatibility and a trivial effect on BMSCs. Possible mechanisms for the cytotoxicity on BMSCs included mitochondrisome and deoxyribonucleic acid damage, increased oxidative stress and damaging of cellular membranes. Our data indicated that PEG-MWCNTs and HA-MWCNTs may be promising materials for bio-related applications.

The impact of photofunctionalized gold nanoparticles on osseointegration

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to create a new surface topography using simulated body fluids (SBF) and Gold Nanoparticles (GNPs) and then to assess the influence of UV Photofunctionalization (PhF) on the osteogenic capacity of these surfaces.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Titanium plates were divided into six groups All were acid etched with 67% Sulfuric acid, 4 were immersed in SBF and 2 of these were treated with 10 nm GNPs. Half of the TiO2 plates were photofunctionalized to be compared with the non-PhF ones. Rat's bone marrow stem cells were seeded into the plates and then CCK8 assay, cell viability assay, immunofluorescence, and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were done after 24 hours. Gene expression analysis was done using real time quantitative PCR (qPCR) one week later to check for the mRNA expression of Collagen-1, Osteopontin and Osteocalcin. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity was assessed after 2 weeks of cell seeding.

RESULTS

Our new topography has shown remarkable osteogenic potential. The new surface was the most biocompatible, and the 10 nm GNPs did not show any cytotoxicity. There was a significant increase in bioactivity, enhanced gene expressions and ALP activity.

CONCLUSIONS

GNPs enhances osteogenic differentiation of stem cells and Photofunctionalizing GNPs highly increases this. We have further created a novel highly efficient topography which highly enhances the speed and extent of osseointegration. This may have great potential for improving treatment outcomes for implant, maxillofacial as well as orthopedic patients.

Nanoparticle-Cell Interaction: A Cell Mechanics Perspective

Progress in the field of nanoparticles has enabled the rapid development of multiple products and technologies; however, some nanoparticles can pose both a threat to the environment and human health. To enable their safe implementation, a comprehensive knowledge of nanoparticles and their biological interactions is needed. In vitro and in vivo toxicity tests have been considered the gold standard to evaluate nanoparticle safety, but it is becoming necessary to understand the impact of nanosystems on cell mechanics. Here, the interaction between particles and cells, from the point of view of cell mechanics (i.e., bionanomechanics), is highlighted and put in perspective. Specifically, the ability of intracellular and extracellular nanoparticles to impair cell adhesion, cytoskeletal organization, stiffness, and migration are discussed. Furthermore, the development of cutting-edge, nanotechnology-driven tools based on the use of particles allowing the determination of cell mechanics is emphasized. These include traction force microscopy, colloidal probe atomic force microscopy, optical tweezers, magnetic manipulation, and particle tracking microrheology.

On the impact of nanotube diameter on biomembrane indentation - Computer simulations study

The influence of the single-walled carbon nanotubes on the phospholipid bilayer has been studied using steered molecular dynamics (SMD) simulations. The impact of different nanotubes on the phospholipid bilayer structure is discussed as well as the speed of indentation. Additionally, a series of simulations with pulling out of the nanotubes from the membrane were performed. The deflection of the membrane in both nanoindenation and extraction processes is also discussed. The self-sealing ability of membrane during this process is examined. Complete degradation of the bilayer was not observed even for the most invasive nanoindentation process studied. The obtained results show that carbon nanotubes can be regarded as potential drug carriers for targeted therapy.

NADPH oxidase-dependent degradation of single-walled carbon nanotubes in macrophages

Previous studies have shown that carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) could be oxidatively biodegraded by neutrophil myeloperoxidase (MPO) and peroxynitrite (ONOO^-). However, the biodegradation mechanism of nanotubes in macrophages has not been explored enough. Here, we showed that both MPO and ONOO^- could effectively oxidize SWCNTs to generate shorter and oxidative nanotubes in vitro. SWCNTs were significantly degraded in zymosan-stimulated macrophages, and the degradation mechanism was dependent on MPO and ONOO^--driven oxidative pathways of activated macrophages, where NADPH oxidase was found to be a major determinant of the biodegradation process. Moreover, the functionalization of IgG to SWCNTs could stimulate MPO release and ONOO^- formation in macrophages, thereby creating the conditions favorable for degradation of nanotubes and subsequently contributing to the higher degradation degree of IgG-coated SWCNTs. Therefore, our discovery of NADPH oxidase-dependent SWCNTs degradation in activated macrophages will open new opportunities for the regulation of SWCNTs fate in vivo.

Mechanisms of lung fibrosis induced by carbon nanotubes: towards an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP)

Several experimental studies have shown that carbon nanotubes (CNT) can induce respiratory effects, including lung fibrosis. The cellular and molecular events through which these effects develop are, however, not clearly elucidated. The purpose of the present review was to analyze the key events involved in the lung fibrotic reaction induced by CNT and to assess their relationships. We thus address current knowledge and gaps with a view to draft an Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) concerning the fibrotic potential of CNT.

As for many inhaled particles, CNT can indirectly activate fibroblasts through the release of pro-inflammatory (IL-1β) and pro-fibrotic (PDGF and TGF-β) mediators by inflammatory cells (macrophages and epithelial cells) via the induction of oxidative stress, inflammasome or NF-kB. We also highlight here direct effects of CNT on fibroblasts, which appear as a new mode of toxicity relatively specific for CNT. Direct effects of CNT on fibroblasts include the induction of fibroblast proliferation, differentiation and collagen production via ERK 1/2 or Smad signaling. We also point out the physico-chemical properties of CNT important for their toxicity and the relationship between in vitro and in vivo effects. This knowledge provides evidence to draft an AOP for the fibrogenic activity of CNT, which allows developing simple in vitro models contributing to predict the CNT effects in lung fibrosis, and risk assessment tools for regulatory decision.

Selective nuclear localization of siRNA by metallic versus semiconducting single wall carbon nanotubes in keratinocytes

BACKGROUND

The potential use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in gene therapy as delivery systems for nucleic acids has been recently recognized. Here, we describe that metallic versus semiconducting single-wall CNTs can produce significant differences in transfection rate and cellular distribution of siRNA in murine PAM212 keratinocytes.

RESULTS/METHODOLOGY

The results of cell interaction studies, coupled with supportive computational simulations and ultrastructural studies revealed that the use of metallic single wall CNTs resulted in siRNA delivery into both the cytoplasm and nucleus of keratinocytes, whereas semiconducting CNTs resulted in delivery only to the cytoplasm.

CONCLUSION

Using enriched fractions of metallic or semiconducting CNTs for siRNA complex preparation may provide specific subcellular targeting advantages.

Comparative cytotoxic response of nickel ferrite nanoparticles in human liver HepG2 and breast MFC-7 cancer cells

Nickel ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) have received much attention for their potential applications in biomedical fields such as magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery and cancer hyperthermia. However, little is known about the toxicity of nickel ferrite NPs at the cellular and molecular levels. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic responses of nickel ferrite NPs in two different types of human cells (i.e., liver HepG2 and breast MCF-7). Nickel ferrite NPs induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity in both types of cells, which was demonstrated by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT), neutral red uptake (NRU) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Nickel ferrite NPs were also found to induce oxidative stress, which was evident by the depletion of glutathione and the induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. The mitochondrial membrane potential due to nickel ferrite NP exposure was also observed. The mRNA levels for the tumor suppressor gene p53 and the apoptotic genes bax, CASP3 and CASP9 were up-regulated, while the anti-apoptotic gene bcl-2 was down-regulated following nickel ferrite NP exposure. Furthermore, the activities of apoptotic enzymes (caspase-3 and caspase-9) were also higher in both types of cells treated with nickel ferrite NPs. Cytotoxicity induced by nickel ferrite was efficiently prevented by N-acetyl cysteine (ROS scavenger) treatment, which suggested that oxidative stress might be one of the possible mechanisms of nickel ferrite NP toxicity. We also observed that MCF-7 cells were slightly more susceptible to nickel ferrite NP exposure than HepG2 cells. This study warrants further investigation to explore the potential mechanisms of different cytotoxic responses of nickel ferrite NPs in different cell lines.

Random networks of single-walled carbon nanotubes promote mesenchymal stem cell's proliferation and differentiation

Studies on the interaction of cells with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have been receiving increasing attention owing to their potential for various cellular applications. In this report, we investigated the interactions between biological cells and nanostructured SWCNTs films and focused on how morphological structures of SWCNT films affected cellular behavior such as cell proliferation and differentiation. One directionally aligned SWCNT Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) film and random network SWCNT film were fabricated by LB and vacuum filteration methods, respectively. We demonstrate that our SWCNT LB and network film based scaffolds do not show any cytotoxicity, while on the other hand, these scaffolds promote differentiation property of rat mesenchymal stem cells (rMSCs) when compared with that on conventional tissue culture polystyrene substrates. Especially, the SWCNT network film with average thickness and roughness values of 95 ± 5 and 9.81 nm, respectively, demonstrated faster growth rate and higher cell thickness for rMSCs. These results suggest that systematic manipulation of the thickness, roughness, and directional alignment of SWCNT films would provide the convenient strategy for controlling the growth and maintenance of the differentiation property of stem cells. The SWCNT film could be an alternative culture substrate for various stem cells, which often require close control of the growth and differentiation properties.

Interactions of multiwalled carbon nanotubes with algal cells: quantification of association, visualization of uptake, and measurement of alterations in the composition of cells

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are considered promising materials in nanotechnology. We quantified CNT accumulation by the alga Desmodesmus subspicatus. Cells were exposed to radiolabeled CNTs ((14)C-CNTs;1 mg/L) to determine uptake and association, as well as elimination and dissociation in clear media.Attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) was used to detect effects of CNTs on algae. CNT-cell interactions were visualized by electron microscopy and related to alterations in their cell composition. A concentration factor of 5000 L/kg dry weight was calculated. Most of the material agglomerated around the cells, but single tubes were detected in the cytoplasm. Computational analyses of the ATR-FTIR data showed that CNT treated algae differed from controls at all sampling times.CNT exposure changed the biochemical composition of cells. The fact that CNTs are bioavailable for algae and that they influence the cell composition is important with regard to environmental risk assessment of this nanomaterial.

Nanoparticle–blood interactions: the implications on solid tumour targeting

This review examines nanoparticle–blood interactions, their implications on solid tumour targeting, and provides an outlook to guide future nanoparticle design.

Oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes as antigen delivery system to promote superior CD8(+) T cell response and protection against cancer

Properties like high interfacial area with cellular membranes, unique ability to incorporate multiple functionalization, as well as compatibility and transport in biological fluids make carbon nanotubes (CNTs) useful for a variety of therapeutic and drug-delivery applications. Here we used a totally synthetic hybrid supramolecule as an anticancer vaccine formulation. This complex structure comprises CNTs as delivery system for the Cancer Testis Antigen named NY-ESO-1, allied to a synthetic Toll-Like Receptor agonist. The CNT constructs were rapidly internalized into dendritic cells, both in vitro and in vivo, and served as an intracellular antigen depot. This property favored the induction of strong CD4(+) T as well as CD8(+) T cell-mediated immune responses against the NY-ESO-1. Importantly, the vaccination significantly delayed the tumor development and prolonged the mice survival, highlighting the potential application of CNTs as a vaccine delivery system to provide superior immunogenicity and strong protection against cancer.

Croix CM, Watkins SC, Kisin ER, Kotchey GP, Balasubramanian K, Vlasova II, Yu J, Kim K, Seo W, Mallampalli RK, Star A, Shvedova AA. Lung macrophages "digest" carbon nanotubes using a superoxide/peroxynitrite oxidative pathway

In contrast to short-lived neutrophils, macrophages display persistent presence in the lung of animals after pulmonary exposure to carbon nanotubes. While effective in the clearance of bacterial pathogens and injured host cells, the ability of macrophages to "digest" carbonaceous nanoparticles has not been documented. Here, we used chemical, biochemical, and cell and animal models and demonstrated oxidative biodegradation of oxidatively functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes via superoxide/NO* → peroxynitrite-driven oxidative pathways of activated macrophages facilitating clearance of nanoparticles from the lung.

Impact of carbon nanotubes and graphene on immune cells

It has been recently proposed that nanomaterials, alone or in concert with their specific biomolecular conjugates, can be used to directly modulate the immune system, therefore offering a new tool for the enhancement of immune-based therapies against infectious disease and cancer. Here, we revised the publications on the impact of functionalized carbon nanotubes (f-CNTs), graphene and carbon nanohorns on immune cells. Whereas f-CNTs are the nanomaterial most widely investigated, we noticed a progressive increase of studies focusing on graphene in the last couple of years. The majority of the works (56%) have been carried out on macrophages, following by lymphocytes (30% of the studies). In the case of lymphocytes, T cells were the most investigated (22%) followed by monocytes and dendritic cells (7%), mixed cell populations (peripheral blood mononuclear cells, 6%), and B and natural killer (NK) cells (1%). Most of the studies focused on toxicity and biocompatibility, while mechanistic insights on the effect of carbon nanotubes on immune cells are generally lacking. Only very recently high-throughput gene-expression analyses have shed new lights on unrecognized effects of carbon nanomaterials on the immune system. These investigations have demonstrated that some f-CNTs can directly elicitate specific inflammatory pathways. The interaction of graphene with the immune system is still at a very early stage of investigation. This comprehensive state of the art on biocompatible f-CNTs and graphene on immune cells provides a useful compass to guide future researches on immunological applications of carbon nanomaterials in medicine.

Single-walled carbon nanohorn (SWNH) aggregates inhibited proliferation of human liver cell lines and promoted apoptosis, especially for hepatoma cell lines

Single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWNHs) may be useful as carriers for anticancer drugs due to their particular structure. However, the interactions between the material itself and cancerous or normal cells have seldom been studied. To address this problem, the effects of raw SWNH material on the biological functions of human liver cell lines were studied. Our results showed that unmodified SWNHs inhibited mitotic entry, growth, and proliferation of human liver cell lines and promoted their apoptosis, especially in hepatoma cell lines. Individual spherical SWNH particles were found inside the nuclei of human hepatoma HepG2 cells and the lysosomes of normal human liver L02 cells, implying that SWNH particles could penetrate into human liver cells_and the different interacted mechanisms on human normal cell lines compared to hepatoma cell lines. Further research on the mechanisms and application in treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with SWNHs is needed.

Genotoxicity of multi-walled carbon nanotubes at occupationally relevant doses

Carbon nanotubes are commercially-important products of nanotechnology; however, their low density and small size makes carbon nanotube respiratory exposures likely during their production or processing. We have previously shown mitotic spindle aberrations in cultured primary and immortalized human airway epithelial cells exposed to single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT). In this study, we examined whether multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) cause mitotic spindle damage in cultured cells at doses equivalent to 34 years of exposure at the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL). MWCNT induced a dose responsive increase in disrupted centrosomes, abnormal mitotic spindles and aneuploid chromosome number 24 hours after exposure to 0.024, 0.24, 2.4 and 24 μg/cm² MWCNT. Monopolar mitotic spindles comprised 95% of disrupted mitoses. Three-dimensional reconstructions of 0.1 μm optical sections showed carbon nanotubes integrated with microtubules, DNA and within the centrosome structure. Cell cycle analysis demonstrated a greater number of cells in S-phase and fewer cells in the G2 phase in MWCNT-treated compared to diluent control, indicating a G1/S block in the cell cycle. The monopolar phenotype of the disrupted mitotic spindles and the G1/S block in the cell cycle is in sharp contrast to the multi-polar spindle and G2 block in the cell cycle previously observed following exposure to SWCNT. One month following exposure to MWCNT there was a dramatic increase in both size and number of colonies compared to diluent control cultures, indicating a potential to pass the genetic damage to daughter cells. Our results demonstrate significant disruption of the mitotic spindle by MWCNT at occupationally relevant exposure levels.

Single-walled carbon nanohorns decorated with semiconductor quantum dots to evaluate intracellular transport

Single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWNHs) have great potential to enhance thermal and chemotherapeutic drug efficiencies for cancer therapies. Despite their diverse capabilities, minimal research has been conducted so far to study nanoparticle intracellular transport, which is an important step in designing efficient therapies. SWNHs, like many other carbon nanomaterials, do not have inherent fluorescence properties making intracellular transport information difficult to obtain. The goals of this project were to (1) develop a simple reaction scheme to decorate the exohedral surface of SWNHs with fluorescent quantum dots (QDs) and improve conjugate stability, and (2) evaluate SWNH-QD conjugate cellular uptake kinetics and localization in various cancer cell lines of differing origins and morphologies. In this study, SWNHs were conjugated to CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs using a unique approach to carbodiimide chemistry. Transmission electron microscopy and electron dispersive spectroscopy verified the conjugation of SWNHs and QDs. Cellular uptake kinetics and efficiency were characterized in three malignant cell lines: U-87 MG (glioblastoma), MDA-MB-231 (breast cancer), and AY-27 (bladder transitional cell carcinoma) using flow cytometry. Cellular distribution was verified by confocal microscopy, and cytotoxicity was also evaluated using an alamarBlue assay. Results indicate that cellular uptake kinetics and efficiency are highly dependent on cell type, highlighting the significance of studying nanoparticle transport at the cellular level. Nanoparticle intracellular transport investigations may provide information to optimize treatment parameters (e.g., SWNH concentration, treatment time, etc.) depending on tumor etiology.

Long-term stem cell labeling by collagen-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes

The monitoring of grafted stem cells is crucial to assess the efficiency, effectiveness and safety of such stem cell-based therapies. In this regard, a reliable and cytocompatible labeling method for stem cells is critically needed. In this study, the collagen-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (Col-SWCNTs) were used as imaging probes for labeling of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and the inherent Raman scattering of SWCNTs was used to image the SWCNT-labeled cells. The results showed that the Col-SWCNTs exhibit efficient cellular internalization by hMSCs without affecting their proliferation and differentiation. The prolonged dwell time of Col-SWCNTs in cells ensured the long-term labeling for up to 2 weeks. This work reveals the potential of Col-SWCNTs as probes for long-term stem cell labeling.

When carbon nanotubes encounter the immune system: desirable and undesirable effects

The role of our immune system is to bring efficient protection against invasion by foreign elements, not only pathogens but also any material it may be in contact with. Nanoparticles may enter the body and encounter the immune system either intentionally (e.g. administration for biomedical application) or not (e.g. respiratory occupational exposure). Therefore, it is of fundamental importance to get a thorough knowledge of the way they interact with immune cells and all related consequences. Among nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are of special interest because of their tremendous field of applications. Consequently, their increasing production, processing and eventual incorporation into new types of composites and/or into biological systems have raised fundamental issues regarding their potential impact on health. This review aims at giving an overview of the known desirable and undesirable effects of CNTs on the immune system, i.e. beneficial modulation of immune cells by CNTs engineered for biomedical applications versus toxicity, inflammation and unwanted immune reactions triggered by CNTs themselves.

Evaluation of cytotoxicity, biophysics and biomechanics of cells treated with functionalized hybrid nanomaterials

Hybrids consisting of carboxylated, single-walled carbon nanotube (c-SWNT)-silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)-DNA-poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) are synthesized via sequential functionalization to mimic the theragnostic (therapy and diagnosis) system. Carboxylation of SWNT has minimized the metal impurities with plenty of -COOH groups to produce hybrid (c-SWNT-AgNPs). The hybrid is further wrapped with DNA (hybrid-DNA) and encapsulated with PVA as hybrid composite (HC). Materials were tested against human alveolar epithelial cells (A549), mouse fibroblasts cells (NIH3T3) and human bone marrow stromal cells (HS-5). The composition-sensitive physico-chemical interactions, biophysics and biomechanics of materials-treated cells are evaluated. The cell viability was improved for HC, hybrid-PVA and c-SWNT when compared with SWNT and hybrid. SWNT and hybrid showed cell viability less than 60% at high dose (40 µg ml(-1)) and hybrid-PVA and HC retained 80% or more cell viability. The treatment of hybrid nanomaterials considerably changed cell morphology and intercellular interaction with respect to the composition of materials. Peculiarly, PVA-coated hybrid was found to minimize the growth of invadopodia of A549 cells, which is responsible for the proliferation of cancer cells. Surface roughness of cells increased after treatment with hybrid, where cytoplasmic regions specifically showed higher roughness. Nanoindentation results suggest that changes in biomechanics occurred owing to possible internalization of the hybrid. The changes in force spectra of treated cells indicated a possible greater interaction between the cells and hybrid with distinct stiffness and demonstrated the surface adherence and internalization of hybrid on or inside the cells.

Nano-bio effects: interaction of nanomaterials with cells

With the advancements in nanotechnology, studies on the synthesis, modification, application, and toxicology evaluation of nanomaterials are gaining increased attention. In particular, the applications of nanomaterials in biological systems are attracting considerable interest because of their unique, tunable, and versatile physicochemical properties. Artificially engineered nanomaterials can be well controlled for appropriate usage, and the tuned physicochemical properties directly influence the interactions between nanomaterials and cells. This review summarizes recently synthesized major nanomaterials that have potential biomedical applications. Focus is given on the interactions, including cellular uptake, intracellular trafficking, and toxic response, while changing the physicochemical properties of versatile materials. The importance of physicochemical properties such as the size, shape, and surface modifications of the nanomaterials in their biological effects is also highlighted in detail. The challenges of recent studies and future prospects are presented as well. This review benefits relatively new researchers in this area and gives them a systematic overview of nano-bio interaction, hopefully for further experimental design.

Understanding the toxicity of carbon nanotubes

Because of their unique physical, chemical, electrical, and mechanical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted a great deal of research interest and have many potential applications. As large-scale production and application of CNTs increases, the general population is more likely to be exposed to CNTs either directly or indirectly, which has prompted considerable attention about human health and safety issues related to CNTs. Although considerable experimental data related to CNT toxicity at the molecular, cellular, and whole animal levels have been published, the results are often conflicting. Therefore, a systematic understanding of CNT toxicity is needed but has not yet been developed. In this Account, we highlight recent investigations into the basis of CNT toxicity carried out by our team and by other laboratories. We focus on several important factors that explain the disparities in the experimental results of nanotoxicity, such as impurities, amorphous carbon, surface charge, shape, length, agglomeration, and layer numbers. The exposure routes, including inhalation, intravenous injection, or dermal or oral exposure, can also influence the in vivo behavior and fate of CNTs. The underlying mechanisms of CNT toxicity include oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, malignant transformation, DNA damage and mutation (errors in chromosome number as well as disruption of the mitotic spindle), the formation of granulomas, and interstitial fibrosis. These findings provide useful insights for de novo design and safe application of carbon nanotubes and their risk assessment to human health. To obtain reproducible and accurate results, researchers must establish standards and reliable detection methods, use standard CNT samples as a reference control, and study the impact of various factors systematically. In addition, researchers need to examine multiple types of CNTs, different cell lines and animal species, multidimensional evaluation methods, and exposure conditions. To make results comparable among different institutions and countries, researchers need to standardize choices in toxicity testing such as that of cell line, animal species, and exposure conditions. The knowledge presented here should lead to a better understanding of the key factors that can influence CNT toxicity so that their unwanted toxicity might be avoided.

Carbon Nanotubes in Cancer Treatment: A Preliminary In Vitro Study Using Neuroblastoma Cells

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were reported to cause severe toxicity in in vivo and in vitro studies. On the other hand, CNTs has the potential as a mechanism for drug delivery across the blood brain barrier due to its nano-sized dimensions. The present preliminary study examined the cytotoxic effect of CNTs in serum-free and serum-containing EMEM medium on neuroblastoma cells growth. The MTS assay showed that CNTs did not cause any cytotoxicity at concentrations below 0.1 mg/mL at 24 and 48 h incubation in serum-containing EMEM medium. This finding suggested that below 0.1 mg/mL, CNTs can be used as a mechanism for drug delivery for the treatment of neuronal cancer. However, CNTs showed slighty toxic towards neuroblastoma cells at concentration 0.1 mg/ml at 48h incubation in serum-free EMEM medium. This finding indicates that the present of serum play a role for toxicity effect of CNTs in cells.

Are carbon nanotubes a natural solution? Applications in biology and medicine

Carbon nanotubes and materials based on carbon nanotubes have many perceived applications in the field of biomedicine. Several highly promising examples have been highlighted in the literature, ranging from their use as growth substrates or tissue scaffolds to acting as intracellular transporters for various therapeutic and diagnostic agents. In addition, carbon nanotubes have a strong optical absorption in the near-infrared region (in which tissue is transparent), which enables their use for biological imaging applications and photothermal ablation of tumors. Although these advances are potentially game-changing, excitement must be tempered somewhat as several bottlenecks exist. Carbon nanotube-based technologies ultimately have to compete with and out-perform existing technologies in terms of performance and price. Moreover, issues have been highlighted relating to toxicity, which presents an obstacle for the transition from preclinical to clinical use. Although many studies have suggested that well-functionalized carbon nanotubes appear to be safe to the treated animals, mainly rodents, long-term toxicity issues remains to be elucidated. In this report, we systematically highlight some of the most promising biomedical application areas of carbon nanotubes and review the interaction of carbon nanotubes with cultured cells and living organisms with a particular focus on in vivo biodistribution and potential adverse health effects. To conclude, future challenges and prospects of carbon nanotubes for biomedical applications will be addressed.

Single-wall carbon nanohorns inhibited activation of microglia induced by lipopolysaccharide through blocking of Sirt3

Single-wall carbon nanohorns (SWNHs) have been demonstrated to accumulate in cytotoxic levels within organs of various animal models and cell types, which emerge as a wide range of promising biomedical imaging. Septic encephalopathy (SE) is an early sign of sepsis and associated with an increased rate of morbidity and mortality. Microglia activation plays an important role in neuroinflammation, which contributes to neuronal damage. Inhibition of microglia activation may have therapeutic benefits, which can alleviate the progression of neurodegeneration. Therefore, we investigated the functional changes of mice microglia cell lines pre-treated with or without lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced by SWNHs. To address this question, the research about direct role of SWNHs on the growth, proliferation, and apoptosis of microglia cell lines in mice (N9 and BV2) pre-treated with or without LPS had been performed. Our results indicate that the particle diameter of SWNHs in water is between 342 to 712 nm. The images in scanning electron microscope showed that SWNHs on polystyrene surface are individual particles. LPS induced activation of mice microglia, promoted its growth and proliferation, and inhibited its apoptosis. SWNHs inhibited proliferation, delayed mitotic entry, and promoted apoptosis of mice microglia cells. The effects followed gradually increasing cultured time and concentrations of SWNHs, especially in cells pre-treated with LPS. SWNHs induced a significantly increase in G1 phase and inhibition of S phase of mice microglia cells in a dose-manner dependent of SWNHs, especially in cells pre-treated with LPS. The transmission electron microscope images showed that individual spherical SWNH particles smaller than 100 nm in diameters were localized inside lysosomes of mice microglia cells. SWNHs inhibited mitotic entry, growth and proliferation of mice microglia cells, and promoted its apoptosis, especially in cells pre-treated with LPS. SWNHs inhibited expression of Sirt3 and energy metabolism related with Sirt3 in mice microglia cells in a dose-dependent manner, especially in cells pre-treated with LPS. The role of SWNHs on mice microglia was implicating Sirt3 and energy metabolism associated with it.

In vitro evaluation of silver nanoparticles on human tumoral and normal cells

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which have well-known antimicrobial properties, are extensively used in various medical and general applications. Despite the widespread use of AgNPs, relatively few studies have been undertaken to determine the toxicity effects of AgNPs exposure. The aim of the present work was to study how AgNPs interact with four different human cell lines (hepatoma, leukemia, dermal and pulmonary fibroblast) in order to understand the impact of such nanomaterials on cellular biological functions. For toxicity evaluations, mitochondrial function (MTT assay) and membrane leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH assay) were assessed under control and exposed conditions (24, 48 and 72 h of exposure). Furthermore, we evaluated the protective effect of N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) against AgNP-induced cytotoxicity. Results showed that mitochondrial function decreased in all cell lines exposed to AgNPs at 6.72-13.45 µg/ml. LDH leakage also increased in all cell lines exposed to AgNPs (6.72-13.45 µg/ml). However, the cytotoxic effect of AgNPs (13.45 µg/ml) was prevented by pretreatment of different concentrations of NAC (1-20 mM). Our findings indicate that AgNPs are cytotoxic on human tumor and normal cells, the tumor cells being more sensitive to the cytotoxic effect of AgNPs. In addition, NAC protects human cells from cytotoxicity of AgNPs, suggesting that oxidative stress is in part responsible of this effect.