Does photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles correspond to photo-cytotoxicity? Cellular uptake of TiO2 nanoparticles is important in their photo-cytotoxicity

Evaluation of antifungal activity of visible light-activated doped TiO2 nanoparticles

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a well-known material for its biomedical applications, among which its implementation as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy has attracted considerable interest due to its photocatalytic properties, biocompatibility, high chemical stability, and low toxicity. However, the photoactivation of TiO2 requires ultraviolet light, which may lead to cell mutation and consequently cancer. To address these challenges, recent research has focused on the incorporation of metal dopants into the TiO2 lattice to shift the band gap to lower energies by introducing allowed energy states within the band gap, thus ensuring the harnessing of visible light. This study presents the synthesis, characterization, and application of TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) in their undoped, doped, and co-doped forms for antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (APDT) against Candida albicans. Blue light with a wavelength of 450 nm was used, with doses ranging from 20 to 60 J/cm2 and an NP concentration of 500 µg/ml. It was observed that doping TiO2 with Cu, Fe, Ag ions, and co-doping Cu:Fe into the TiO2 nanostructure enhanced the visible light photoactivity of TiO2 NPs. Experimental studies were done to investigate the effects of different ions doped into the TiO2 crystal lattice on their structural, optical, morphological, and chemical composition for APDT applications. In particular, Ag-doped TiO2 emerged as the best candidate, achieving 90-100% eradication of C. albicans.

A water-soluble label for food products prevents packaging waste and counterfeiting

Sustainability, humidity sensing and product origin are important features of food packaging. While waste generated from labelling and packaging causes environmental destruction, humidity can result in food spoilage during delivery and counterfeit-prone labelling undermines consumer trust. Here we introduce a food label based on a water-soluble nanocomposite ink with a high refractive index that addresses these issues. By patterning the nanocomposite ink using nanoimprint lithography, the resultant metasurface shows bright and vivid structural colours. This method makes it possible to quickly and inexpensively create patterns on large surfaces. A QR code is also developed that can provide up-to-date information on food products. Microprinting hidden in the QR code protects against counterfeiting, cannot be physically detached or replicated and may be used as a humidity indicator. Our proposed food label can reduce waste while ensuring customers receive accurate product information.

Phototoxic or Photoprotective?-Advances and Limitations of Titanium (IV) Oxide in Dermal Formulations-A Review

The widespread role of titanium (IV) oxide (TiO₂) in many industries makes this substance of broad scientific interest. TiO₂ can act as both a photoprotector and photocatalyst, and the potential for its role in both applications increases when present in nanometer-sized crystals. Its sunlight-scattering properties are used extensively in sunscreens. Furthermore, attempts have been made to incorporate TiO₂ into dermal formulations of photolabile drugs. However, the propensity to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) rendering this material potentially cytotoxic limits its role. Therefore, modifications of TiO₂ nanoparticles (e.g., its polymorphic form, size, shape, and surface modifications) are used in an effort to reduce its photocatalytic effects. This review provides an overview of the potential risks arising from and opportunities presented by the use of TiO₂ in skin care formulations.

Safe-Shields: Basal and Anti-UV Protection of Human Keratinocytes by Redox-Active Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles Prevents UVB-Induced Mutagenesis

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria), biocompatible multifunctional nanozymes exerting unique biomimetic activities, mimic superoxide-dismutase and catalase through a self-regenerating, energy-free redox cycle driven by Ce3+/4+ valence switch. Additional redox-independent UV-filter properties render nanoceria ideal multitask solar screens, shielding from UV exposure, simultaneously protecting tissues from UV-oxidative damage. Here, we report that nanoceria favour basal proliferation of primary normal keratinocytes, and protects them from UVB-induced DNA damage, mutagenesis, and apoptosis, minimizing cell loss and accelerating recovery with flawless cells. Similar cell-protective effects were found on irradiated noncancerous, but immortalized, p53-null HaCaT keratinocytes, with the notable exception that here, nanoceria do not accelerate basal HaCaT proliferation. Notably, nanoceria protect HaCaT from oxidative stress induced by irradiated titanium dioxide nanoparticles, a major active principle of commercial UV-shielding lotions, thus neutralizing their most critical side effects. The intriguing combination of nanoceria multiple beneficial properties opens the way for smart and safer containment measures of UV-induced skin damage and carcinogenesis.

Influence of TiO2 nanocomposite UV filter surface chemistry and their interactions with organic UV filters on uptake and toxicity toward cultured fish gill cells

Aquatic environments have been found to be contaminated with a variety of inorganic and organic UV filters. This includes novel nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO₂) composite particles, which have been increasingly developed and incorporated into commercial sunscreens in recent years. So far, relatively little is known about the effects of this novel class of UV filters on aquatic life. Therefore, this study aimed to determine and compare the toxicity of three such nanoparticulate TiO₂ UV filters with different surface coatings, namely Eusolex® T-Avo (SiO₂-coated), T-Lite™ SF (Al(OH)₃/PDMS-coated), and Eusolex® T-S (Al₂O₃/stearic acid-coated) either alone, or in the presence of selected organic UV filters (octinoxate, avobenzone, octocrylene), toward fish using RTgill-W1 cell cultures as an in vitro experimental model. Besides standard exposure protocols, alternative approaches (i.e., exposure to water accommodated fractions (WAFs), hanging-drop exposure) were explored to account for nanoparticle (NP)-specific fate in the medium and obtain additional/complementary information on their toxicity in different conditions. The AlamarBlue, CFDA-AM and Neutral Red Retention (NR) assays were used to measure effects on different cellular endpoints. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to examine NP uptake. Our results showed that none of the TiO₂ NP UV filters were cytotoxic at the concentrations tested (0.1-10 µg/mL; 24 h) but there were differences in their uptake by the cells. Thus, only the hydrophilic T-AVO was detected inside cells, but the hydrophobic T-Lite SF and T-S were not. In addition, our results show that the presence of NPs (or the used dispersant) tended to decrease organic UV filter toxicity. The level of combination effect depended on both NP-type (surface chemistry) and concentration, suggesting that the reduced toxicity resulted from reduced availability of the organic UV filters due to their adsorption to the NP surface. Thus, mixtures of TiO₂ NP UV filters and organic UV filters may have a different toxicological profile compared to the single substances, but probably do not pose an increased hazard.

Antagonistic Skin Toxicity of Co-Exposure to Physical Sunscreen Ingredients Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

Being the main components of physical sunscreens, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) are often used together in different brands of sunscreen products with different proportions. With the broad use of cosmetics containing these nanoparticles (NPs), concerns regarding their joint skin toxicity are becoming more and more prominent. In this study, the co-exposure of these two NPs in human-derived keratinocytes (HaCaT) and the in vitro reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) model EpiSkin was performed to verify their joint skin effect. The results showed that ZnO NPs significantly inhibited cell proliferation and caused deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage in a dose-dependent manner to HaCaT cells, which could be rescued with co-exposure to TiO₂ NPs. Further mechanism studies revealed that TiO₂ NPs restricted the cellular uptake of both aggregated ZnO NPs and non-aggregated ZnO NPs and meanwhile decreased the dissociation of Zn²⁺ from ZnO NPs. The reduced intracellular Zn²⁺ ultimately made TiO₂ NPs perform an antagonistic effect on the cytotoxicity caused by ZnO NPs. Furthermore, these joint skin effects induced by NP mixtures were validated on the epidermal model EpiSkin. Taken together, the results of the current research contribute new insights for understanding the dermal toxicity produced by co-exposure of different NPs and provide a valuable reference for the development of formulas for the secure application of ZnO NPs and TiO₂ NPs in sunscreen products.

Herbal products as skincare therapeutic agents against ultraviolet radiation-induced skin disorders

This paper aims to highlight the pharmacological aspects of listed herbal skincare products used for the treatment of various disorders caused due to ultraviolet radiation. The pharmacological aspects include safety and efficacy validation as per regulatory guidelines following internationally accepted scientific principles for their development of skincare products. Herbal products have always been used traditionally for the treatment of various skin ailments and have become more prevalent because of their safety and high efficacy benefits. The incorporation of synthetic molecules and chemical substances in the different medicinal and pharmaceutical formulations is the leading cause of the dermal toxicity. Therefore, the developments of herbal skincare products containing scientifically validated herbal ingredients have better acceptance, respect, and belief in the society. The listed herbal products in this review can help take forward the commercial development of skincare products for therapeutic as well as beauty care purposes from such plants.

Influence of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles on Human Health and the Environment

Nanotechnology has enabled tremendous breakthroughs in the development of materials and, nowadays, is well established in various economic fields. Among the various nanomaterials, TiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) occupy a special position, as they are distinguished by their high availability, high photocatalytic activity, and favorable price, which make them useful in the production of paints, plastics, paper, cosmetics, food, furniture, etc. In textiles, TiO₂ NPs are widely used in chemical finishing processes to impart various protective functional properties to the fibers for the production of high-tech textile products with high added value. Such applications contribute to the overall consumption of TiO₂ NPs, which gives rise to reasonable considerations about the impact of TiO₂ NPs on human health and the environment, and debates regarding whether the extent of the benefits gained from the use of TiO₂ NPs justifies the potential risks. In this study, different TiO₂ NPs exposure modes are discussed, and their toxicity mechanisms—evaluated in various in vitro and in vivo studies—are briefly described, considering the molecular interactions with human health and the environment. In addition, in the conclusion of this study, the toxicity and biocompatibility of TiO₂ NPs are discussed, along with relevant risk management strategies.

Titanium Dioxide Induces Apoptosis under UVA Irradiation via the Generation of Lysosomal Membrane Permeabilization-Dependent Reactive Oxygen Species in HaCat Cells

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) have wide commercial applications, owing to their small size; however, the biosafety of TiO₂ NPs should be evaluated further. In this study, we aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity of TiO₂ NPs in the presence and absence of ultraviolet A (UVA) irradiation in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells. TiO₂ NPs did not significantly affect cell viability in the absence of UVA irradiation. Nonetheless, UVA-irradiated TiO₂ NPs induced caspase-dependent apoptosis of HaCaT cells. Exposure of HaCaT cells to TiO₂ NPs and UVA resulted in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP); both effects were not observed in the absence of UVA irradiation. An analysis of the relationship between LMP and ROS, using CA-074 as a cathepsin inhibitor or NAC as an antioxidant, showed that LMP stimulates ROS generation under these conditions. These results imply that LMP-dependent oxidative stress plays a critical role in the UVA phototoxicity of TiO₂ NPs in HaCaT cells.

Reactive strategy-based SERS determination of O2˙- generated from sunscreen

A novel surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) nanoprobe based on a reactive strategy was designed for the first time to determine the concentration of superoxide anion radical (O2˙-) produced from titanium dioxide by a UV radiation process. A limit of detection (LOD) for O2˙- of 9.0 nmol L-1 could be attained.

Morphology-dependent titanium dioxide nanoparticle-induced keratinocyte toxicity and exacerbation of allergic contact dermatitis

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles are commonly found in consumer products, such as sunscreens, and human dermal exposures are relatively high. Research suggests potential differences in the toxicity of anatase and rutile crystalline forms of TiO₂. Additionally, transition metal dopants are frequently used to enhance physicochemical properties of TiO₂, and the toxicity of these nanoparticles are not extensively studied. Therefore, this work examined the keratinocyte toxicity and in vivo skin allergy responses after treatment with 30 nm anatase, 30 nm rutile, or <100 nm Mn-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles. After a 24-hour exposure, there were no differences in keratinocyte cytotoxicity; however, Mn-doped TiO₂ nanoparticles induced significant in vitro ROS generation and in vivo skin swelling responses in a model of allergic contact dermatitis.

Oral exposure of titanium oxide nanoparticles induce ileum physical barrier dysfunction via Th1/Th2 imbalance

In this work, we aimed to evaluate the adverse effects and the mechanism of intestinal barrier caused by titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs). Here, the effects of two different dosages (300 and 1200 mg/kg) of TiO₂ NPs on female mice (n = 5) were investigated. After 28-day oral exposure, the results of Ti content were significantly increased in the ileum in comparison with the control. The histopathological structure index of the ileum was significantly changed after TiO₂ NPs exposure; villi height and crypt depth were decreased and increased, respectively. Meanwhile, TiO₂ NPs treatment also significantly altered the transcription levels of genes. First, the GATA-3 and STAT-4 were upregulation and downregulation, respectively. Second, gene expressions of the Zonula Occludens-1, claudin (CLDN)-12, occludin, and myosin light chain kinase were significantly upregulated, while the CLDN-3 was decreased. Finally, the caspase-3, caspase-9, and caspase-12 were upregulated. The results of TUNEL staining indicated apoptosis in the ileum. In general, TiO₂ NPs treatment significantly changed the intestine physical barrier in a dose-dependent manner. The toxicity of TiO₂ NPs could be through the imbalance in the Th1/Th2.

Toxicity Evaluation of TiO2 Nanoparticles on the 3D Skin Model: A Systematic Review

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are regularly used in sunscreens because of their photoprotective capacity. The advantage of using TiO2 on the nanometer scale is due to its transparency and better UV blocking efficiency. Due to the greater surface area/volume ratio, NPs become more (bio)-reactive giving rise to concerns about their potential toxicity. To evaluate the irritation and corrosion of cosmetics, 3D skin models have been used as an alternative method to animal experimentation. However, it is not known if this model is appropriate to study skin irritation, corrosion and phototoxicity of nanomaterials such as TiO2 NPs. This systematic review (SR) proposed the following question: Can the toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles be evaluated in a 3D skin model? This SR was conducted according to the Preliminary Report on Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). The protocol was registered in CAMARADES and the ToxRTool evaluation was performed in order to increase the quality and transparency of this search. In this SR, 7 articles were selected, and it was concluded that the 3D skin model has shown to be promising to evaluate the toxicity of TiO2 NPs. However, most studies have used biological assays that have already been described as interfering with these NPs, demonstrating that misinterpretations can be obtained. This review will focus in the possible efforts that should be done in order to avoid interference of NPs with biological assays applied in 3D in vitro culture.

Interactions of TiO2 Nanoparticles with Ingredients from Modern Lifestyle Products and Their Effects on Human Skin Cells

The number of consumer products containing nanoparticles (NPs) experienced a rapid increase during the past decades. However, most studies of nanosafety have been conducted using only pure NPs produced in the laboratory, while the interactions with other ingredients in consumer products have rarely been considered so far. In the present study, we investigated such interactions—with a special focus on modern lifestyle products (MLPs) used by adolescents. An extensive survey was undertaken at different high schools all over Austria to identify MLPs that either contain NPs or that could come easily in contact with NPs from other consumer products (such as TiO₂ from sunscreens). Based on the results from a survey among secondary schools students, we focused on ingredients from Henna tattoos (2-hydroxy-1,4-naphtoquinone, HNQ, and p-phenylenediamine, PPD), fragrances (butylphenyl methylpropional, known as Lilial), cosmetics and skin-care products (four different parabens). As a cellular model, we decided to use neonatal normal human dermal fibroblasts (nNHDF), since skin contact is the main route of exposure for these compounds. TiO₂ NPs interacted with these compounds as evidenced by alterations in their hydrodynamic diameter observed by nanoparticle tracking analysis. Combinations of TiO₂ NPs with the different MLP components did not show altered cytotoxicity profiles compared to MLP components without TiO₂ NPs. Nevertheless, altered cellular glutathione contents were detected after incubation of the cells with Lilial. This effect was independent of the presence of TiO₂ NPs. Testing mixtures of NPs with other compounds from consumer products is an important approach to achieve a more reliable safety assessment.

Survival Mechanisms and Xenobiotic Susceptibility of Keratinocytes Exposed to Metal-Derived Nanoparticles

Metal-derived nanoparticles (Mt-NPs) are increasingly used in cosmetology due to their ultraviolet shielding (titanium dioxide [TiO₂]), antioxidant (cerium dioxide [CeO₂]), and biocidal (silver [Ag]) properties. In the absence of overt toxicity (i.e., cell death), Mt-NPs are considered safe for cosmetic applications. However, there is little understanding about the mechanisms involved in the survival of keratinocytes exposed to subtoxic levels of Mt-NPs. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT) were exposed subacutely to subtoxic concentrations (≤30 μg/mL, 48-72 h) of rutile (r) TiO₂ (cylindrical), CeO₂ (cubic) and Ag (spherical) with a core/hydrodynamic size of <50/<100 nm and >98% purity. Mt-NP uptake was indirectly quantified by changes in the light side scatter, where the kinetics (time/dose-response) suggested that the three types of Mt-NPs were similarly uptaken by keratinocytes. rTiO₂ and CeO₂, but not Ag-NPs, increased autophagy, whose inhibition prompted cell death. No increase in the steady-state levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was induced by exposure to any of the Mt-NPs tested. Interestingly, intracellular Ag-NP aggregates observed an increased far-red autofluorescence (≥740 nm em), which has been ascribed to their binding to thiol molecules such as glutathione (GSH). Accordingly, inhibition of GSH synthesis, but not the impairment of oxidized GSH recycling, sensitized keratinocytes to Ag-NPs suggesting that GSH homeostasis, and its direct scavenging of Ag-NPs, but not ROS, is essential for keratinocyte survival upon exposure to Ag-NP. rTiO₂ and Ag, but not CeO₂-NPs, compromised metabolic flux (glycolysis and respiration), but ATP levels were unaltered. Finally, we also observed that exposure to Mt-NPs sensitized keratinocytes to non-UV xenobiotic exposure (arsenite and paraquat). Our results demonstrate the differential contribution of autophagy and GSH homeostasis to the survival of human keratinocytes exposed to subtoxic concentrations of Mt-NPs and highlight the increased susceptibility of keratinocytes exposed to Mt-NPs to a second xenobiotic insult.

Appraisal of Comparative Therapeutic Potential of Undoped and Nitrogen-Doped Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles

Nitrogen-doped and undoped titanium dioxide nanoparticles were successfully fabricated by simple chemical method and characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray (EDX), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. The reduction in crystalline size of TiO2 nanoparticles (from 20-25 nm to 10-15 nm) was observed by TEM after doping with N. Antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antidiabetic, protein kinase inhibition and cytotoxic properties were assessed in vitro to compare the therapeutic potential of both kinds of TiO2 nanoparticles. All biological activities depicted significant enhancement as a result of addition of N as doping agent to TiO2 nanoparticles. Klebsiella pneumoniae has been illuminated to be the most susceptible bacterial strain out of various Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates of bacteria used in this study. Good fungicidal activity has been revealed against Aspergillus flavus. 38.2% of antidiabetic activity and 80% of cytotoxicity has been elucidated by N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles towards alpha-amylase enzyme and Artemia salina (brine shrimps), respectively. Moreover, notable protein kinase inhibition against Streptomyces and antioxidant effect including reducing power and % inhibition of DPPH has been demonstrated. This investigation unveils the more effective nature of N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles in comparison to undoped TiO2 nanoparticles indicated by various biological tests. Hence, N-doped TiO2 nanoparticles have more potential to be employed in biomedicine for the cure of numerous infections.

Preparation of Noniridescent Structurally Colored PS@TiO2 and Air@C@TiO2 Core-Shell Nanoparticles with Enhanced Color Stability

Natural amorphous photonic crystals benefit from reflectance at selective wavelengths in some specific existing natural systems. Noniridescence from natural organisms has also attracted great interest for various examples in bionic colors, pigments, and paintings. Here, Air@C@TiO₂ sphere was obtained by the first calcination of PS@TiO₂ core-shell nanoparticles in nitrogen to ensure the integrity of the shell structure followed by low-temperature calcination to obtain the appropriate color saturation. We demonstrate that, compared with the prepared colored PS@TiO₂/carbon black (CB) pigments, angle-independent hollow Air@C@TiO₂ nanoparticles have enhanced color stability under the action of in situ synthesized carbon black (CB). Our results suggest that it is easy to change the color of these Air@C@TiO₂ spheres by adjusting the sphere structure sizes, which have the potential to show visual signaling.

Multiparameter toxicity screening on a chip: Effects of UV radiation and titanium dioxide nanoparticles on HaCaT cells

Microfluidic screening is gaining attention as an efficient method for evaluating nanomaterial toxicity. Here, we consider a multiparameter treatment where nanomaterials interact with cells in the presence of a secondary exposure (UV radiation). The microfluidic device contains channels that permit immobilization of HaCaT cells (human skin cell line), delivery of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TNPs), and exposure to a known dose of UV radiation. The effect of single-parameter exposures (UV or TNP) was first studied as a benchmark, and then multiparameter toxicity (UV and TNP) at different concentrations was explored. The results demonstrate a concentration-dependent protective effect of TNP when exposed to UV irradiation.

PEGylated doped- and undoped-TiO2 nanoparticles for photodynamic Therapy of cancers

Titanium dioxide has been widely known for its phototoxicity in the environmental context, but little is known for its use in the photodynamic therapy of cancers. Previous studides have shown the hazardous effects of undoped-titanium dioxide nanoparticles (undoped-TiO₂ NPs) in the ecosystem; however, it remains to explore the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) conjugation and doping of metal and non-metal on the photodynamic activity of TiO₂. Here we report the synthesis, characterizations, and applications of doped- and undoped-TiO₂ NPs stabilized by PEG in the photodynamic therapy of cancers. Our results demonstrate that in vitro PEG-NPs significantly reduced the survival of human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) upon solar and ultraviolet (UV) radiations. We found that doping of the metal (cobalt) and non-metal (nitrogen) onto TiO₂ nanocrystals enhanced the photoactivation of doped-TiO₂ NPs in the visible/near infrared (Vis/NIR) region, but these nanocrystals were revealed by cytotoxicity assays to be less potent in killing cancer cells compared to PEGylated undoped-TiO₂. The significant photodynamic effect was shown by PEGylated undoped-TiO₂ synthesized through the sol-gel method with 75% killing of HeLa cells at 5.5 μg/mL concentrations in exposure to UV or sunlight radiations. In vitro cytotoxicity was measured by Sulforhodamine B (SRB) and 3-(4, 5-Dimethylthiazol-2-Yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assays after irradiations with IR, UV, and sunlight for 15-30 minutes (min). All the synthesized NPs were characterized by XRD, AFM, SEM, EDX and DRS chemical analysis. Taken together, our data demonstrate that water-soluble PEGylated TiO₂ NPs maybe a good candidate for the photodynamic therapy of cervical cancer cells. Our data propose that the use of PEG surfactant can enhance the potency of already available photochemical therpeutic agents.

A comprehensive review on the use of second generation TiO2 photocatalysts: Microorganism inactivation

Photocatalytic disinfection practices have been applied for decades and attract current interest along with the developments in synthesis of novel photocatalysts. A survey based investigation was performed for elucidation of photocatalytic treatment details as well as disinfection mechanism of microorganisms. The present work brings significant information on the utilization of second generation TiO₂ photocatalysts for inactivation of microorganisms typically using E. coli as the model microorganism. Special interest was devoted to the role of organic matrix either generated during treatment or as a natural component. Studies on photocatalytic disinfection were extensively reviewed and evaluated with respect to basic operational parameters related to photocatalysis, and types and properties of microorganisms investigated. Degradation mechanism and behavior of microorganisms towards reactive oxygen species during disinfection and organic matrix effects were also addressed. For successful utilization and effective assessment of visible light active photocatalysts, standard protocols for disinfection activity testing have to be set. Further improvement of the efficiency of these materials would be promising for future applications in water treatment processes.

Effects of differently shaped TiO2NPs (nanospheres, nanorods and nanowires) on the in vitro model (Caco-2/HT29) of the intestinal barrier

BACKGROUND

The biological effects of nanoparticles depend on several characteristics such as size and shape that must be taken into account in any type of assessment. The increased use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) for industrial applications, and specifically as a food additive, demands a deep assessment of their potential risk for humans, including their abilities to cross biological barriers.

METHODS

We have investigated the interaction of three differently shaped TiO2NPs (nanospheres, nanorods and nanowires) in an in vitro model of the intestinal barrier, where the coculture of Caco-2/HT29 cells confers inherent intestinal epithelium characteristics to the model (i.e. mucus secretion, brush border, tight junctions, etc.).

RESULTS

Adverse effects in the intestinal epithelium were detected by studying the barrier's integrity (TEER), permeability (LY) and changes in the gene expression of selected specific markers. Using Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy, we detected a different behaviour in the bio-adhesion and biodistribution of each of the TiO2NPs. Moreover, we were able to specifically localize each type of TiO2NPs inside the cells. Interestingly, general DNA damage, but not oxidative DNA damage effects, were detected by using the FPG version of the comet assay.

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate different interactions and cellular responses related to differently shaped TiO2NPs, nanowires showing the most harmful effects.

Photocatalytic production of hydroxyl radicals by commercial TiO2 nanoparticles and phototoxic hazard identification

This study identifies the phototoxic potential of commercial titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) used in sunscreens and consumer products by employing a tiered testing approach comprising physicochemical, in vitro and ex vivo tests. Our results revealed that all the test samples of TiO₂ NPs, varied in surface coating, crystallinity and primary particle size, produced hydroxyl radicals upon UVA photoexcitation as determined by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. Their phototoxic potentials were assessed first by combining the validated 3T3 neutral red uptake phototoxicity test and red blood cell phototoxicity test and subsequently in ex vivo models of chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and reconstructed human 3D skin model (H3D). Crystalline structure and particle size of TiO₂ NPs were found to exert a major influence on the photocatalytic activity and the associated phototoxic effects. Besides, a medium-sized sample with silica/alumina also exhibited high phototoxic potency with no obvious relevance to the enhanced hydroxyl radicals and lipidperoxidation. This effect might be taken place through the interaction of harmful metal ions released from the oxide coating. However, no phototoxicity was observed on a H3D skin model probably due to the lack of efficient percutaneous absorption of TiO₂ NPs. This study demonstrates the efficacy of a tiered testing strategy for identifying phototoxic hazards of TiO₂ NPs and suggests the need for a comprehensive assessment that takes account of the effects of different coating materials and potential interactions between multiple mechanisms.

Two azobenzene derivatives CAB/ACB as reusable sunscreen: UV absorptive capacity and biosafety evaluation

Exposure to UV radiation may cause harmful effects to the skin such as damage, aging and cancer, which can be prevented by using sunscreens. Here, two azobenzene derivatives, 4-cholesterocarbonyl-4'-(N,N,N-triethylaminebutyloxyl bromide) azobenzene (CAB) and 4-cholesterocarbonyl-4'-(N,N-diethylaminebutyloxyl) azobenzene (ACB) were studied as reusable sunscreen candidates. Biocompatibility studies including apoptosis, cytotoxicity and in vivo phototoxicity revealed that the two compounds were rather safe, except ACB, which showed a weak phototoxicity in vitro. Both CAB and ACB have good UV absorption capacity not only in their solution state (dimethylsulfoxide, DMSO) but also in the cosmetic cream state. A commercial sunscreen, avobenzone was decomposed upon UV irradiation and lost its UV protection ability, while that of CAB and ACB could be quickly recovered upon visible light irradiation, implying that they can serve as a new type of reusable sunscreen.

Toxicity of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles

In the recent times, nanomaterials are used in many sectors of science, medicine and industry, without revealing its toxic effects. Thus, it is in urgent need for exploring the toxicity along with the application of such useful nanomaterials. Nanomaterials are categorized with a particle size of 1-100 nm. They have gained increasing attention because of their novel properties, including a large specific surface area and high reaction activity. The various fundamental and practical applications of nanomaterials include drug delivery, cell imaging, and cancer therapy. Nanosized semiconductors have their versatile applications in different areas such as catalysts, sensors, photoelectronic devices, highly functional and effective devices etc. Metal oxides contribute in many areas of chemistry, physics and materials science. Mechanism of toxicity of metal oxide nanoparticles can occur by different methods like oxidative stress, co-ordination effects, non-homeostasis effects, genotoxicity and others. Factors that affect the metal oxide nanoparticles were size, dissolution and exposure routes. This chapter will explain elaborately the toxicity of metal oxide nano structures in living beings and their effect in ecosystem.