Silver nanoparticles exert toxic effects in human monocytes and macrophages associated with the disruption of Delta psi m and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2022

Authors

Sousa, A (Author) Other; Rufino, AT (Author) Other; Fernandes, R (Author) Other; Malheiro, A (Author) Other; Felix Carvalho (Author) FFUP; Eduarda Fernandes (Author) FFUP; Freitas, M (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Archives of Toxicology

Vol. 97

Pages: 405-420

ISSN: 0340-5761

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00X-K6A

DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03415-x

Abstract (EN): Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are the most widely produced type of nanoparticles due to their antimicrobial and preservative properties. However, their systemic bioavailability may be considered a potential hazard. When AgNP reach the bloodstream, they interact with the immune cells, contributing to the onset and development of an inflammatory response. Monocytes and macrophages play a pivotal role in our defense system, but the interaction of AgNP with these cells is still not clear. Therefore, the main objective of this work was to assess the cytotoxic and pro-inflammatory effects induced by 5, 10, and 50 nm AgNP coated with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and citrate, in concentrations that could be attained in vivo (0-25 mu g/mL), in human monocytes isolated from human blood and human macrophages derived from a monocytic cell line (THP-1). The effects of PVP and citrate-coated AgNP on cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and cytokines release were evaluated. The results evidenced that AgNP exert strong harmful effects in both monocytes and macrophages, through the establishment of a strong pro-inflammatory response that culminates in cell death. The observed effects were dependent on the AgNP concentration, size and coating, being observed more pronounced cytotoxic effects with smaller PVP coated AgNP. The results showed that human monocytes seem to be more sensitive to AgNP exposure than human macrophages. Considering the increased daily use of AgNP, it is imperative to further explore the adverse outcomes and mechanistic pathways leading to AgNP-induced pro-inflammatory effects to deep insight into the molecular mechanism involved in this effect.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 16