Small-size silver nanoparticles stimulate neutrophil oxidative burst through an increase of intracellular calcium levels

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2020

Authors

Freitas, M (Author) Other; Lucas, M (Author) Other; Sousa, A (Author) Other; Soares, T (Author) Other; Ribeiro, D (Author) Other; Felix Carvalho (Author) FFUP; Eduarda Fernandes (Author) FFUP

Journal

The Journal is awaiting validation by the Administrative Services.

Title: World Academy of Sciences Journal

Vol. 2

ISSN: 2632-2900

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00V-153

DOI: 10.3892/wasj.2020.46

Abstract (EN): Despite the widespread use of silver nanopar- ticles (AgNPs) in several daily consumer products, the putative human risks resulting from continuous exposure remain elusive, particularly with what concerns the reactivity of the immune system and the resulting pro-inflammatory effects. Neutrophils are considered one of the first and primary cell types that process systemic nanoparticles, mediating the host inflammatory and immunological response, involving the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and citrate-coated AgNPs of different sizes (5, 10 and 50 nm) on oxidative burst, calcium levels and the viability of human neutrophils. It was observed that the effects of AgNPs were size and coating-dependent. The citrate-coated and 5-nm-sized AgNPs were the most cytotoxic and potent inducers of neutrophil oxidative burst. It was observed that AgNPs induced an increase in intracellular calcium levels, which are involved in the activation of protein kinase C (PKC), resulting in the assembly of NADPH oxidase subunits with the subsequent production of reactive oxygen species. This excessive production of reactive oxygen species most probably contributes to the AgNP-induced decrease in neutrophil viability. Overall, the data of the present study contribute to a better understanding of the pro-inflammatory mechanisms associated with the use of AgNPs.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific