Recent Advancements in Bone Tissue Engineering: Integrating Smart Scaffold Technologies and Bio-Responsive Systems for Enhanced Regeneration

In exploring the challenges of bone repair and regeneration, this review evaluates the potential of bone tissue engineering (BTE) as a viable alternative to traditional methods, such as autografts and allografts. Key developments in biomaterials and scaffold fabrication techniques, such as additive manufacturing and cell and bioactive molecule-laden scaffolds, are discussed, along with the integration of bio-responsive scaffolds, which can respond to physical and chemical stimuli. These advancements collectively aim to mimic the natural microenvironment of bone, thereby enhancing osteogenesis and facilitating the formation of new tissue. Through a comprehensive combination of in vitro and in vivo studies, we scrutinize the biocompatibility, osteoinductivity, and osteoconductivity of these engineered scaffolds, as well as their interactions with critical cellular players in bone healing processes. Findings from scaffold fabrication techniques and bio-responsive scaffolds indicate that incorporating nanostructured materials and bioactive compounds is particularly effective in promoting the recruitment and differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells. The therapeutic potential of these advanced biomaterials in clinical settings is widely recognized and the paper advocates continued research into multi-responsive scaffold systems.

Effects of 4G mobile phone radiation exposure on reproductive, hepatic, renal, and hematological parameters of male Wistar rat

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Mobile phones have become a vital part of human life. Due to drastic increase in the number of mobile phone subscribers, exposure to radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted from these phones has increased dramatically. Hence, the effect of RFR on humans is an area of concern. This study was performed to determine the impact of 4G mobile phone radiation on the male reproductive system, liver, kidney, and hematological parameters.

METHODS

Seventy-day-old Wistar rats were exposed to 4G radiation (2350 MHz for 2 h/day for 56 days). Sperm parameters such as sperm count, viability, sperm head morphology, mitochondrial activity, total antioxidant activity, and lipid peroxidation of sperm were evaluated. Histopathology of the testis, prostate, epididymis, seminal vesicle, liver, and kidney was carried out. Complete blood count, liver and kidney function tests, and testosterone hormone analysis were done.

RESULTS

At the end of the experiment, results showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in sperm viability with alterations in the histology of the liver, kidney, testis, and other reproductive organs in the exposed group of rats. A reduced level of testosterone, total antioxidant capacity, and decreased sperm mitochondrial function were also observed in the exposed rats. Moreover, the exposed rats showed an increase in sperm lipid peroxidation and sperm abnormality. Hematological parameters like hemoglobin, red blood cells (RBC), and packed cell volume (PCV) showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the exposed rats.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that chronic exposure to 4G radiation may affect the male reproductive system, hematological system, liver, and kidney of rats.

Biodistribution and histological analysis of iron oxide-dextran nanoparticles in wistar rats

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONP) are showing promise in many biomedical applications. One of these- magnetic hyperthermia- utilizes externally applied alternating magnetic fields and tumor-residing magnetic nanoparticles to generate localized therapeutic temperature elevations. Magnetic hyperthermia is approved in Europe to treat glioblastoma and is undergoing clinical assessment in the United States to treat prostate cancer. In this study, we performed biodistribution and histological analysis of a new IONP (RCL-01) in Wistar rats. These nanoparticles are currently undergoing clinical assessment in locally advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma to determine the feasibility of magnetic hyperthermia treatment in this disease. The study presented here aimed to determine the fate of these nanoparticles in vivo and whether this results in organ damage. Wistar rats were injected intravenously with relatively high doses of IONP (30 mgFe/kg, 45 mgFe/kg and 60 mgFe/kg) and compared to a vehicle control to determine the accumulation of iron in organs and whether this resulted in histological changes in these tissues. Dose-dependent increases of iron were observed in the liver, spleen and lungs of IONP-treated animals at 7 days postinjection; however, this did not result in significant histological changes in these tissues. Immunofluorescent imaging determined these nanoparticles are internalized by macrophages in tissue, suggesting they are readily phagocytosed by the reticuloendothelial system for eventual recycling. Notably, no changes in iron or dextran staining were found in the kidneys across all treatment groups, providing evidence for potential renal clearance.

Survival, growth, behavior, hematology and serum biochemistry of mice under different concentrations of orally administered amorphous silica nanoparticle

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are used extensively in consumer products and biomedical research basically due to ease of production and low cost. However, insufficient literature is reported regarding the toxicity and biocompatibility of SiNPs. The present study aimed to investigate the potential role of amorphous SiNPs on survival, growth, behavioral alterations, hematology and serum biochemistry of mice at four concentrations (control, 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg/day) of an oral supplementation for a period of 3 months. Signs of toxicity (lethargy, nausea, coma, tremors, vomiting and diarrhea, etc.) were noted at 9:00 am and 9:00 pm (twice a day) and the body weight of each of these mice was measured every week. The data were subjected to mean, standard deviation (S.D). Moreover, One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Dunnett's test were applied for analysis of statistical significance between groups by using SPSS software, version 20. All the mice survived with minor alterations in behavior and no significant weight changes were observed during the stipulated time period. Complete blood count (CBC) analysis indicated non-significant (P ≥ 0.05) systemic dysfunctions of organ systems. However, there was elevation in the level of AST and ALT in the analysis of serum biochemistry, while the values of all other examined parameters were not-significant (P ≥ 0.05). The study concluded that orally administered large silica nanoparticles up to the dose level of 150 mg/kg/day are nontoxic for the in vivo use in mice.

Microenvironmental Behaviour of Nanotheranostic Systems for Controlled Oxidative Stress and Cancer Treatment

The development of smart, efficient and multifunctional material systems for diseases treatment are imperative to meet current and future health challenges. Nanomaterials with theranostic properties have offered a cost effective and efficient solution for disease treatment, particularly, metal/oxide based nanotheranostic systems already offering therapeutic and imaging capabilities for cancer treatment. Nanoparticles can selectively generate/scavenge ROS through intrinsic or external stimuli to augment/diminish oxidative stress. An efficient treatment requires higher oxidative stress/toxicity in malignant disease, with a minimal level in surrounding normal cells. The size, shape and surface properties of nanoparticles are critical parameters for achieving a theranostic function in the microenvironment. In the last decade, different strategies for the synthesis of biocompatible theranostic nanostructures have been introduced. The exhibition of therapeutics properties such as selective reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, hyperthermia, antibacterial, antiviral, and imaging capabilities such as MRI, CT and fluorescence activity have been reported in a variety of developed nanosystems to combat cancer, neurodegenerative and emerging infectious diseases. In this review article, theranostic in vitro behaviour in relation to the size, shape and synthesis methods of widely researched and developed nanosystems (Au, Ag, MnO_x, iron oxide, maghemite quantum flakes, La₂O_3−x, TaO_x, cerium nanodots, ITO, MgO_1−x) are presented. In particular, ROS-based properties of the nanostructures in the microenvironment for cancer therapy are discussed. The provided overview of the biological behaviour of reported metal-based nanostructures will help to conceptualise novel designs and synthesis strategies for the development of advanced nanotheranostic systems.

Oleic Acid Protects Endothelial Cells from Silica-Coated Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles (SPIONs)-Induced Oxidative Stress and Cell Death

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) have great potential for use in medicine, but they may cause side effects due to oxidative stress. In our study, we investigated the effects of silica-coated SPIONs on endothelial cells and whether oleic acid (OA) can protect the cells from their harmful effects. We used viability assays, flow cytometry, infrared spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Our results show that silica-coated SPIONs are internalized by endothelial cells, where they increase the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cause cell death. Exposure to silica-coated SPIONs induced accumulation of lipid droplets (LD) that was not dependent on diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT)-mediated LD biogenesis, suggesting that silica-coated SPIONs suppress LD degradation. Addition of exogenous OA promoted LD biogenesis and reduced SPION-dependent increases in oxidative stress and cell death. However, exogenous OA protected cells from SPION-induced cell damage even in the presence of DGAT inhibitors, implying that LDs are not required for the protective effect of exogenous OA. The molecular phenotype of the cells determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the destructive effect of silica-coated SPIONs and the ameliorative role of OA in the case of oxidative stress. Thus, exogenous OA protects endothelial cells from SPION-induced oxidative stress and cell death independent of its incorporation into triglycerides.

Mechanistic insight into differential interactions of iron oxide nanoparticles with native, glycated albumin and their effect on erythrocytes parameters

Nanoparticles and protein bioconjugates have been studied for multiple biomedical applications. We sought to investigate the interaction and structural modifications of bovine serum albumin (BSA) with iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs). The IONPs were green synthesized using E. crassipes aqueous leaf extract following characterization using transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-Ray Diffraction. Two different concentrations of native/glycated albumin (0.5 and 1.5 mg/ml) with IONPs were allowed to interact for 1 h at 37 °C. Glycation markers, protein modification markers, cellular antioxidant, and hemolysis studies showed structural modifications and conformational changes in albumin due to the presence of IONPs. UV-Visible absorbance resulted in hyperchromic and bathochromic effects of IONPs-BSA conjugates. Fluorescence measurements of tyrosine, tryptophan, advanced glycated end products, and ANS binding assay were promising and quenching effects proved IONPs-BSA conjugate formation. In FTIR of BSA-IONPs, transmittance was increased in amide A and B bands while decreased in amide I and II bands. In summary, native PAGE, HPLC, and FTIR analysis displayed a differential behaviour of IONPs with native and glycated BSA. These results provided an understanding of the interaction and structural modifications of glycated and native BSA which may provide fundamental repercussions in future studies.

Emerging strategies in developing multifunctional nanomaterials for cancer nanotheranostics

Cancer involves a collection of diseases with a common trait - dysregulation in cell proliferation. At present, traditional therapeutic strategies against cancer have limitations in tackling various tumors in clinical settings. These include chemotherapeutic resistance and the inability to overcome intrinsic physiological barriers to drug delivery. Nanomaterials have presented promising strategies for tumor treatment in recent years. Nanotheranostics combine therapeutic and bioimaging functionalities at the single nanoparticle level and have experienced tremendous growth over the past few years. This review highlights recent developments of advanced nanomaterials and nanotheranostics in three main directions: stimulus-responsive nanomaterials, nanocarriers targeting the tumor microenvironment, and emerging nanomaterials that integrate with phototherapies and immunotherapies. We also discuss the cytotoxicity and outlook of next-generation nanomaterials towards clinical implementation.

Rat Blood Leukocytes after Intravenous Injection of Magnetoliposomes on the Basis of Nanomagnetite

The structure of blood neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes and differential white blood count in adult rats were studied over 120 days after a single intravenous injection of magnetoliposomes based on nanomagnetite. Magnetoliposomes had no effect on the structure of neutrophils, eosinophils, monocytes, and lymphocytes. At the same time, injection of a suspension of magnetoliposomes based on magnetite nanoparticles led to a decrease in lymphocyte count and an increase in the count of monocytes and band and segmented neutrophils in the blood. These changes were transient and the parameters returned to normal by day 40-60 after injection.

Biotransformation and toxicity evaluation of functionalized manganese doped iron oxide nanoparticles

Safe inorganic nanomaterials are tremendously used for diagnosis and therapies. However, essential processing in the microbiological environment changed the physical properties and in situ degradability, which is evaluated meticulously. In this research article, bare, Polyethylene glycol, and citrate coated manganese doped iron oxide nanoparticles are synthesized through the coprecipitation route. Structural, magnetic, optical, and morphological analyses are performed through different characterization tools. X-ray diffraction confirmed the formation of single-phase FeMnO3 with a crystallite size of 48.91 nm. Vibrating sample magnetometer analysis confirmed the formation of soft ferromagnetic behavior of bare and coated nanoparticles (NPs). Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of spherical shaped nanoparticles. Single-dose in vivo acute toxicity testing is performed through the intraperitoneal route of administration on groups of healthy albino rats. Elevated enzyme levels of kidney and liver are observed at day 1 but a transient decrease is observed at later stages. Through optical follow-up, degradation effects are studied by adding prepared NPs in lysosomal like medium. Finally, metabolization of degraded products based on manganese/iron ions is studied by adding apoferritin into a lysosome like solution. These studies showed partial storage of manganese ions from NPs, while no substantial transfer is observed in the case of manganese salt.

Quercetin Attenuates Brain Oxidative Alterations Induced by Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Rats

Iron oxide nanoparticle (IONP) therapy has diverse health benefits but high doses or prolonged therapy might induce oxidative cellular injuries especially in the brain. Therefore, we conducted the current study to investigate the protective role of quercetin supplementation against the oxidative alterations induced in the brains of rats due to IONPs. Forty adult male albino rats were allocated into equal five groups; the control received a normal basal diet, the IONP group was intraperitoneally injected with IONPs of 50 mg/kg body weight (B.W.) and quercetin-treated groups had IONPs + Q25, IONPs + Q50 and IONPs + Q100 that were orally supplanted with quercetin by doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg quercetin/kg B.W. daily, respectively, administrated with the same dose of IONPs for 30 days. IONPs induced significant increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) and significantly decreased reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Consequently, IONPs significantly induced severe brain tissue injuries due to the iron deposition leading to oxidative alterations with significant increases in brain creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Furthermore, IONPs induced significant reductions in brain epinephrine, serotonin and melatonin with the downregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (mtTFA) mRNA expressions. IONPs induced apoptosis in the brain monitored by increases in caspase 3 and decreases in B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) expression levels. Quercetin supplementation notably defeated brain oxidative damages and in a dose-dependent manner. Therefore, quercetin supplementation during IONPs is highly recommended to gain the benefits of IONPs with fewer health hazards.

Neutrophil Inflammatory Response Is Downregulated by Uptake of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Therapeutics

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) are employed as diagnostics and therapeutics following intravenous delivery for the treatment of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in adult patients with chronic kidney failure. Neutrophils are the first defense against blood borne foreign insult and recruit to vascular sites of inflammation via a sequential process that is characterized by adhesive capture, rolling, and shear resistant arrest. A primary chemotactic agonist presented on the glycocalyx of inflamed endothelium is IL-8, which upon binding to its cognate membrane receptor (CXCR1/2) activates a suite of responses in neutrophils. An early response is degranulation with accompanying upregulation of β2-integrin (CD11/CD18) and shedding of L-selectin (CD62L) receptors, which exert differential effects on the efficiency of endothelial recruitment. Feraheme is an FDA approved SPION treatment for IDA, but its effect on the innate immune response of neutrophils during inflammation has not been reported. Here, we studied the immunomodulatory effects of Feraheme on neutrophils freshly isolated from healthy human subjects and stimulated in suspension or on inflammatory mimetic substrates with IL-8. Cells treated with Feraheme exhibited reduced sensitivity to stimulation with IL-8, indicated by reduced upregulation of membrane CD11b/CD18 receptors, high affinity (HA) CD18, and shedding of CD62L. Feraheme also inhibited N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) induced reactive oxygen species production. Neutrophil rolling, arrest, and migration was assessed in vascular mimetic microfluidic channels coated with E-selectin and ICAM-1 to simulate inflamed endothelium. Neutrophils exposed to Feraheme rolled faster on E-selectin and arrested less frequently on ICAM-1, in a manner dependent upon SPION concentration. Subsequent neutrophil shape change, and migration were also significantly inhibited in the presence of Feraheme. Lastly, Feraheme accelerated clearance of cytosolic calcium flux following IL-8 stimulation. We conclude that uptake of Feraheme by neutrophils inhibits chemotactic activation and downregulates normal rolling to arrest under shear flow. The mechanism involves increased calcium clearance following chemotactic activation, which may diminish the efficiency of recruitment from the circulation at vascular sites of inflammation.

Prospective Protective Effect of Ellagic Acid as a SIRT1 Activator in Iron Oxide Nanoparticle-Induced Renal Damage in Rats

Despite the wide application of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), little is known about the specific mechanism of their nephrotoxic effect. We aimed to evaluate the nephrotoxic effects of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) in vivo and the protective effect of ellagic acid (EA) as a silent information regulator sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activator against the induced nephrotoxicity. Forty male albino Wistar rats were randomly distributed into four equal groups (10 rats each): the control group (oral saline for 30 days), ellagic acid (EA) group (10 mg/kg b.w. EA, orally for 30 days), IONP group (20 mg/kg b.w. IONP I/P injection at the 24th-30th day), and EA + IONP group (10 mg/kg b.w./day EA for 30 days + 20 mg/kg b.w. IONPs at the 24th-30th day). In the present study, the potent antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects of EA were indicated by the significant overexpression of SIRT1 in renal tissues that leads to significant decreases in renal MDA content, P53 protein level and forkhead-box transcription factor1 (FOXO1) expression, and significant increases in renal GSH level, catalase activity, growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible protein 45 alpha (GADDα45), and renal inhibition of apoptosis protein (KIAP) gene expression levels in the EA + IONP-treated group. These results were confirmed by the improved histopathological renal features with EA administration. In conclusion, the present study provides the first evidence for the usefulness of EA as a sirtuin1 activator in the prevention or treatment of renal damage. Thus, EA could be used as a promising therapy for the prevention of IONP-induced nephrotoxicity.

Green Synthesis to Develop Iron-Nano Formulations and Its Toxicity Assays

OBJECTIVES

In the past few years, herbal medicines have gained popularity over synthetic drugs because of their natural source and minimal side effects which has led to a tremendous growth of phytopharmaceuticals usage. With the development of nanotechnology, it provides alternative approaches to overcome several limitations using nano-formulations. In spite of considerable quantity of antianemic preparations with different iron forms available, currently additives are used and represented in modern pharmaceutical market. Iron deficiency anemia is a major global public health problem which particularly affects pregnant women, children and elderly persons. The situation is complicated because of disadvantages and drug side effects from existing antianemic medicines. There is a great demand for the development of new antianemic preparations. Green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles, possess high potential in this field.

METHODS

Our study focuses on developing green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) of 10-50 nm with spherical shape where different dosages were used -1 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg for exposure in Wistar albino female rats for 28 days. The toxicity was assessed using various parameters such as measurements of the rat body and organ mass, hematology, biochemical evaluation and histopathological examinations.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in body and organ weights. Hematological indices also indicated no significant differences whereas biochemical factors showed increase in levels of direct bilirubin and globulin of medium as well as high dose and SGPT levels were increased only in high dose. The major organs (heart, kidney and liver) showed histopathological alterations in 10 and 100 mg/kg whereas brain showed only in 100 mg/kg.

CONCLUSION

The toxicity of IONPs was found to be more significant when the concentration was increased; however, low doses can be used for further investigation as an antianemic preparation.

Iron oxide nanoparticle-induced hematopoietic and immunological response in rats

The application and use of iron oxide nanoparticless (IONPs) in the biomedical field are steadily increasing, although it remains uncertain whether IONPs are safe or should be used with caution. In the present study, we investigated the toxicity profile of ultrafine IONPs in rats administered with 7.5, 15 and 30 mg IONPs/kg body wt intravenously once a week for 4 weeks. IONP treatment reduces bone marrow-mononuclear cell proliferation, increases free radical species and DNA damage leading to growth arrest and subsequently apoptosis induction at 15 and 30 mg doses. It also induces apoptosis in undifferentiated hematopoietic stem cells. IONP treatment significantly increased the pro-inflammatory cytokine (Interleukin (IL)-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6) level in serum. The induction in inflammation was likely mediated by splenic M1 macrophages (IL-6 and TNF-α secretion). IONP treatment induces splenocyte apoptosis and alteration in the immune system represented by reduced CD4+/CD8+ ratio and increased B cells. It also reduces innate defense represented by lower natural killer cell cytotoxicity. IONP administration markedly increased lipid peroxidation in the spleen, while the glutathione level was reduced. Similarly, superoxide dismutase activity was increased and catalase activity was reduced in the spleen of IONP-treated rats. At an organ level, IONP treatment did not cause any significant injury or structural alteration in the spleen. Collectively, our results suggest that a high dose of ultrafine IONPs may cause oxidative stress, cell death, and inflammation in a biological system.

Toxicity evaluation of barium ferrite nanoparticles in bacteria, yeast and nematode

Barium ferrite nanoparticles (BaFeNPs) are a permanent magnetic nanomaterial widely used in electrical energy storage, recording media or in the improvement of the magnetic properties of other nanoparticles (NPs). However, the information about the toxicity of BaFeNPs is almost non-existent. Thus, in the present work, the antimicrobial effect of BaFeNPs was evaluated for the first time in gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and yeast showing neither antibacterial nor antifungal activity at moderate concentrations. On the other hand, in order to assess the in vivo toxicity of BaFeNPs the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans was used and ingestion, survival, reproduction and ROS production were evaluated in worms treated with different concentrations of BaFeNPs. Our results show that worms ingest these NPs through the digestive system affecting survival, reproduction and ROS production.

Comparative study of toxicological assessment of yttrium oxide nano- and microparticles in Wistar rats after 28 days of repeated oral administration

Despite their enormous advantages, nanoparticles (NPs) have elicited disquiet over their safety. Among the numerous NPs, yttrium oxide (Y2O3) NPs are utilised in many applications. However, knowledge about their toxicity is limited, and it is imperative to investigate their potential adverse effects. Therefore, this study explored the effect of 28 days of repeated oral exposure of Wistar rats to 30, 120 and 480 mg/kg body weight (bw) per day of Y2O3 NPs and microparticles (MPs). Before initiation of the study, characterisation of the particles by transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller and laser Doppler velocimetry was undertaken. Genotoxicity was evaluated using the comet and micronucleus (MN) assays. Biochemical markers aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, catalase and lactate dehydrogenase in serum, liver and kidney were determined. Bioaccumulation of the particles was analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The results of the comet and MN assays showed significant differences between the control and groups treated with 120 and 480 mg/kg bw/day Y2O3 NPs. Significant biochemical alterations were also observed at 120 and 480 mg/kg bw/day. Haematological and histopathological changes were documented. Yttrium (Y) biodistribution was detected in liver, kidney, blood, intestine, lungs, spleen, heart and brain in a dose- and the organ-dependent manner in both the particles. Further, the highest levels of Y were found in the liver and the lowest in the brain of the treated rats. More of the Y from NPs was excreted in the urine than in the faeces. Furthermore, NP-treated rats exhibited much higher absorption and tissue accumulation. These interpretations furnish rudimentary data of the apparent genotoxicity of NPs and MPs of Y2O3 as well as the biodistribution of Y. A no-observed adverse effect level of 30 mg/kg bw/day was found after oral exposure of rats to Y2O3 NPs.

Rat Blood Leukocytes after Intravenous Injection of Chitosan-Modified Magnetic Nanospheres

Nanosized magnetite particles (magnetic nanospheres) are a prospective basis for creation of new diagnostic and therapeutic agents. The structure of blood leukocytes and the leukocytic formula are studied in adult rats over a period of 120 days after a single intravenous injection of chitosan-modified nanosized magnetite particles. No effects of chitosan-modified magnetic nanospheres on the structure of rat blood leukocytes are detected. Injection of suspension of chitosan-modified magnetite nanospheres is associated with an increase in the levels of monocytes, segmented and stab neutrophils, and a decrease in lymphocyte counts in the blood of rats. The shifts in the leukogram parameters are transitory, the picture returned to normal by day 40 postinjection.

SiO2-PVA-Fe(acac)3 Hybrid Based Superparamagnetic Nanocomposites for Nanomedicine: Morpho-textural Evaluation and In Vitro Cytotoxicity Assay

A facile sol-gel route has been applied to synthesize hybrid silica-PVA-iron oxide nanocomposite materials. A step-by-step calcination (processing temperatures up to 400 °C) was applied in order to oxidize the organics together with the iron precursor. Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, small angle neutron scattering, and nitrogen porosimetry were used to determine the temperature-induced morpho-textural modifications. In vitro cytotoxicity assay was conducted by monitoring the cell viability by the means of MTT assay to qualify the materials as MRI contrast agents or as drug carriers. Two cell lines were considered: the HaCaT (human keratinocyte cell line) and the A375 tumour cell line of human melanoma. Five concentrations of 10 µg/mL, 30 µg/mL, 50 µg/mL, 100 µg/mL, and 200 µg/mL were tested, while using DMSO (dimethylsulfoxid) and PBS (phosphate saline buffer) as solvents. The HaCaT and A375 cell lines were exposed to the prepared agent suspensions for 24 h. In the case of DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) suspensions, the effect on human keratinocytes migration and proliferation were also evaluated. The results indicate that only the concentrations of 100 μg/mL and 200 μg/mL of the nanocomposite in DMSO induced a slight decrease in the HaCaT cell viability. The PBS based in vitro assay showed that the nanocomposite did not present toxicity on the HaCaT cells, even at high doses (200 μg/mL agent).

Immunotoxicity Considerations for Next Generation Cancer Nanomedicines

Although interest and funding in nanotechnology for oncological applications is thriving, translating these novel therapeutics through the earliest stages of preclinical assessment remains challenging. Upon intravenous administration, nanomaterials interact with constituents of the blood inducing a wide range of associated immunotoxic effects. The literature on the immunological interactions of nanomaterials is vast and complicated. A small change in a particular characteristic of a nanomaterial (e.g., size, shape, or charge) can have a significant effect on its immunological profile in vivo, and poor selection of specific assays for establishing these undesirable effects can overlook this issue until the latest stages of preclinical assessment. This work describes the current literature on unintentional immunological effects associated with promising cancer nanomaterials (liposomes, dendrimers, mesoporous silica, iron oxide, gold, and quantum dots) and puts focus on what is missing in current preclinical evaluations. Opportunities for avoiding or limiting immunotoxicity through efficient preclinical assessment are discussed, with an emphasis placed on current regulatory views and requirements. Careful consideration of these issues will ensure a more efficient preclinical assessment of cancer nanomedicines, enabling a smoother clinical translation with less failures in the future.

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.

Evaluation of DNA interaction, genotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by iron oxide nanoparticles both in vitro and in vivo: attenuation by thymoquinone

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are known to induce cytotoxicity in various cancer cell lines through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, the studies on its potential to induce toxicity in normal cell lines and in vivo system are limited and ambiguity still exists. Additionally, small molecules are known to interact with the DNA and cause damage to the DNA. The present study is designed to evaluate the potential interaction of IONPs with DNA along with their other toxicological effects and subsequent attenuation by thymoquinone both in vitro (primary lymphocytes) and in vivo (Wistar rats). IONPs were characterized by TEM, SEM-EDS, and XRD. The results from DNA interaction studies showed that IONPs formed a complex with DNA and also got intercalated between the base pairs of the DNA. The decrease in percent cell viability of rat’s lymphocytes was observed along with an increase in ROS generation in a dose-dependent manner (50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 μg/ml of IONPs). The genetic damage in in vivo might be due to the generation of ROS as depletion in anti-enzymatic activity was observed along with an increase in lipid peroxidation in a dose–dependent manner (25, 50, 100 mg/kg of IONPs). Interestingly, supplementation of thymoquinone in combination with IONPs has significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated the genetic and oxidative damage in a dose-dependent manner both in vitro and in vivo. It can be concluded that thymoquinone has the potential to attenuate the oxidative stress and genetic toxicity in vitro and in vivo.

In vitro toxicity assessment of zinc and nickel ferrite nanoparticles in human erythrocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cell

Ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) have gained attention in biomedicine due to their many potential applications, such as targeted drug delivery, their use as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging and oncological treatments. The information about the risk effects of ferrite NPs in human blood cells is, however, scarce. To assess their potential toxicity, in vitro studies were carried out with magnetite and zinc, nickel and nickel‑zinc ferrites NPs at different concentrations (50, 100 and 200 μg·ml^-1). The toxicity of the ferrite NPs was evaluated in humans by determining red blood hemolysis, by measuring the content of total proteins, and by assaying catalase and glutathione-S-transferase activities. Our results show that nickel‑zinc ferrite lead to hemolysis, and that magnetite, zinc and nickel‑zinc ferrites increase glutathione-S-transferase activity. No significant changes in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells viability were observed after the treatment with the four different ferrite NPs in vitro.

Oral supplementation of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles moderately affected behavior but drastically disturbed leukocyte count, serum cholesterol levels and antioxidant parameters from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner

Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles (NPs) are used in blades of gas turbine engines to thermally insulate them and to protect them against hot and corrosive gas streams. However, the information regarding their biocompatibility is limited. The present study was aimed to report the effect of Lanthanum Zirconate NPs on selected aspects of behavior, serum biochemistry, complete blood count and antioxidant parameters from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner. Albino mice, seven weeks old, were orally treated with 75 mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles for consecutive 22 days. Saline treated control groups were maintained in parallel. It was observed that rearing frequency was significantly decreased (P = 0.01) in NPs treated male mice. Complete blood count analysis indicated that NPs treated female mice had significantly reduced white blood cells (P = 0.05) and lymphocytes count (P = 0.03). NPs treated male had significantly reduced serum cholesterol levels (P = 0.05) than control group. It was observed that Superoxide dismutase concentrations in liver (P = 0.025) and kidney (P = 0.008), Malondialdehyde concentrations in liver (P = 0.044) of female and Malondialdehyde concentrations in kidney (P < 0.001) and brain (P < 0.001) and catalase concentrations in liver (P = 0.05) of NPs treated male mice were significantly higher than their respective control groups.. In conclusion, we are reporting that oral supplementation with 75 mg/ml solvent/Kg body weight of Lanthanum Zirconate nanoparticles can affect the behavior, leukocyte count, serum cholesterol and antioxidant metabolites from vital organs of albino mice in a gender specific manner.

Application of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Contemporary Experimental Physiology and Cell Biology Research

Recent findings have suggested that iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have some exceptional chemical characteristics which make them useful in both experimental physiology and cell biology research. These nanoparticles might be applied as drug delivery systems for anti-cancer and other medications. Also, IONPs might be a valuable part of many novel bioassays in various fundamental medical fields. In recent years, several studies have indicated that IONPs may have certain cytotoxic and genotoxic potential in living systems. During in vitro conditions, IONPs might induce generation of reactive oxygen species and cause oxidative stress in some cell populations. The toxicity of IONPs is not yet fully understood, and additional research is needed to confirm if IONPs have detrimental effects on human health. This short article focuses on the recent developments and trends in the fields of nanomedicine and nanobiology regarding iron oxide nanomaterials and their application in fundamental medical disciplines such as experimental physiology. We discuss our previously published works on structural effects of IONPs and other metallic nanoparticles on cell nucleus in in vitro conditions. We also describe our recent findings regarding the impact of IONPs on certain biophysical properties of subcellular components.

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.

Genotoxic and mutagenic assessment of iron oxide (maghemite-γ-Fe2O3) nanoparticle in the guppy Poecilia reticulata

The environmental risk of nanomaterials (NMs) designed and used in nanoremediation process is of emerging concern, but their ecotoxic effects to aquatic organism remains unclear. In this study, the citrate-coated (maghemite) nanoparticles (IONPs) were synthesized and its genotoxic and mutagenic effects were investigated in the female guppy Poecilia reticulata. Fish were exposed to IONPs at environmentally relevant iron concentration (0.3 mg L^-1) during 21 days and the animals were collected at the beginning of the experiment and after 3, 7, 14 and 21 days of exposure. The genotoxicity and mutagenicity were evaluated in terms of DNA damage (comet assay), micronucleus (MN) test and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities (ENA) frequency. Results showed differential genotoxic and mutagenic effects of IONPs in the P. reticulata according to exposure time. The IONP induced DNA damage in P. reticulata after acute (3 and 7 days) and long-term exposure (14 and 21 days), while the mutagenic effects were observed only after long-term exposure. The DNA damage and the total ENA frequency increase linearly over the exposure time, indicating a higher induction rate of clastogenic and aneugenic effects in P. reticulata erythrocytes after long-term exposure to IONPs. Results indicated that the P. reticulata erythrocytes are target of ecotoxicity of IONPs.

Iron oxide nanoparticles induced cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and DNA damage in lymphocytes

Over the past few decades nanotechnology and material science has progressed extremely rapidly. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) owing to their unique magnetic properties have a great potential for their biomedical and bioengineering applications. However, there is an inevitable need to address the issue of safety and health effects of these nanoparticles. Hence, the present study was aimed to assess the cytotoxic effects of IONPs on rats' lymphocytes. Using different assays, we studied diverse parameters including mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lactate dehydrogenase activity, antioxidant enzymes activity and DNA damage measurements. Intracellular metal uptake and ultrastructure analysis were also carried out through inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy respectively. The results show that the IONP-induced oxidative stress was concentration-dependent in nature, with significant (P < 0.05) increase in ROS levels, lipid peroxidation level as well as depletion of antioxidant enzymes and glutathione. Moreover, we observed morphological changes in the cell after intracellular uptake and localization of nanoparticles in cells. From the findings of the study, it may be concluded that IONPs induce ROS-mediated cytotoxicity in lymphocytes. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Cytotoxicity and oxidative stress responses of silica-coated iron oxide nanoparticles in CHSE-214 cells

The present study aimed at investigating cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by silica-coated iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized with dithiocarbamate (Fe₃O₄ NPs) in Chinook salmon cells (CHSE-214) derived from Oncorhynchus tshawytscha embryos. A significant reduction in cell viability was evident in response to Fe₃O₄ NPs as revealed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay after 24 h of exposure. Out of the tested concentrations (10, 20, and 30 μg/ml), the highest concentration has shown significant decrease in the viability of cells after 24 h of exposure. Alterations in the morphology of CHSE-214 cells was also evident at 10 μg/ml concentration of Fe₃O₄ NPs after 24 h. Fe₃O₄ NPs elicited a significant dose-dependent reduction in total glutathione content (TGSH), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) with a concomitant increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO), and protein carbonyl (PC) at highest concentration (30 μg/ml) after 24 h of exposure. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that Fe₃O₄ NPs have potential to induce cytotoxicity in CHSE-214 cells, which is likely to be mediated through reactive oxygen species generation and oxidative stress.

[Effect of iron nanoparticles on free radical oxidation process in blood of rats with Pliss lymphosarcoma]

The use of metal nanoparticles (NPs) for cancer treatment requires careful examination of their biological effects. The aim of this study was to determine parameters of oxidative processes in the blood of tumor-bearing animals treated with metallic iron NPs only. The markers of antioxidant status and accumulation of lipid peroxidation products were measured in erythrocytes and blood plasma of rats with Pliss lymphosarcoma (PLS) and intact rats. PLS animals were treated eight times with iron NPs (at a dose of 1.25 mg/kg bw (main group), rats of the control group received saline (0.3 ml). In control animals, an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed in red blood cells (RBC) by 45%; this was accompanied by compensatory increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) and catalase by 24% and 14.3%, respectively (p<0.05). In plasma an increase in MDA by 167.4% (p<0.01) and a decrease in oxidase activity of ceruloplasmin (CP) by 36.8% (p<0.001) were found. In the main group there was a decrease of accumulation of lipid peroxidation products in the blood. Intensity of detected changes depended on the antitumor effect: rats with growing LSP showed a tendency to the decrease in the RBC MDA level and normalization of plasma MDA; in animals with LSP regression this marker did not differ from normal values. In all animals of the main group the CP content was basically the same as in intact rats while GSH increased in the group without therapeutic effect (by 218.6%) and in the group with the effect by 69% (versus normal values; p<0.01). SOD activity in the rats with LSP growth significantly increased (by 42%), in the rats with regression decreased (by 30%) with subsequent normalization. Thus, administration of iron NPs caused activation of the antioxidant system in blood and a significant decrease in the manifestations of oxidative stress associated with tumor growth.

Exposure to Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Coated with Phospholipid-Based Polymeric Micelles Induces Biochemical and Histopathological Pulmonary Changes in Mice

The biochemical and histopathological changes induced by the exposure to iron oxide nanoparticles coated with phospholipid-based polymeric micelles (IONPs-PM) in CD-1 mice lungs were analyzed. After 2, 3, 7 and 14 days following the intravenous injection of IONPs-PM (5 and 15 mg Fe/kg bw), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, oxidative stress parameters and the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3 and TNF-α were evaluated in lung tissue. An increase of catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities on the second day followed by a decrease on the seventh day, as well as a decline of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity on the third and seventh day were observed in treated groups vs. controls. However, all these enzymatic activities almost fully recovered on the 14th day. The reduced glutathione (GSH) and protein thiols levels decreased significantly in nanoparticles-treated groups and remained diminished during the entire experimental period; by contrast malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyls increased between the 3rd and 14th day of treatment vs. control. Relevant histopathological modifications were highlighted using Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining. In addition, major changes in the expression of apoptosis markers were observed in the first week, more pronounced for the higher dose. The injected IONPs-PM generated a dose-dependent decrease of the mouse lung capacity, which counteracted oxidative stress, thus creating circumstances for morphopathological lesions and oxidation processes.