Ahmedabad University

About: Ahmedabad University is a education organization based out in Ahmedabad, India. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Cognitive radio & Cancer. The organization has 353 authors who have published 693 publications receiving 7594 citations.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles induce oxidative DNA damage and ROS-triggered mitochondria mediated apoptosis in human liver cells (HepG2)

Abstract: The wide scale use of Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles in the world consumer market makes human beings more prone to the exposure to ZnO nanoparticles and its adverse effects. The liver, which is the primary organ of metabolism, might act as a major target organ for ZnO nanoparticles after they gain entry into the body through any of the possible routes. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess the apoptotic and genotoxic potential of ZnO nanoparticles in human liver cells (HepG2) and the underlying molecular mechanism of its cellular toxicity. The role of dissolution in the toxicity of ZnO nanoparticles was also investigated. Our results demonstrate that HepG2 cells exposed to 14–20 μg/ml ZnO nanoparticles for 12 h showed a decrease in cell viability and the mode of cell death induced by ZnO nanoparticles was apoptosis. They also induced DNA damage which was mediated by oxidative stress as evidenced by an increase in Fpg sensitive sites. Reactive oxygen species triggered a decrease in mitochondria membrane potential and an increase in the ratio of Bax/Bcl2 leading to mitochondria mediated pathway involved in apoptosis. In addition, ZnO nanoparticles activated JNK, p38 and induced p53Ser15 phosphorylation. However, apoptosis was found to be independent of JNK and p38 pathways. This study investigating the effects of ZnO nanoparticles in human liver cells has provided valuable insights into the mechanism of toxicity induced by ZnO nanoparticles.

Mechanisms of genotoxicity. A review of in vitro and in vivo studies with engineered nanoparticles.

Abstract: Engineered nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in different technologies but their unique properties might also cause adverse health effects. In reviewing recent in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity studies we discuss potential mechanisms of genotoxicity induced by NPs. Various factors that may influence genotoxic response, including physico-chemical properties and experimental conditions, are highlighted. From 4346 articles on NP toxicity, 112 describe genotoxicity studies (94 in vitro, 22 in vivo). The most used assays are the comet assay (58 in vitro, 9 in vivo), the micronucleus assay (31 in vitro, 14 in vivo), the chromosome aberrations test (10 in vitro, 1 in vivo) and the bacterial reverse mutation assay (13 studies). We describe advantages and potential problems with different methods and suggest the need for appropriate methodologies to be used for investigation of genotoxic effects of NPs, in vitro and in vivo.

Toxicity of Nanomaterials

Abstract: This decade has seen revolutionary developments in the field of nanotechnology with newer and diverse applications of nanoparticles (NPs) appearing every day. However, there are limited data about the toxicity of nanoparticles and their fate in biological systems. Inhalation, ingestion, and dermal penetration are the potential exposure routes for nanoparticles, whereas particle size, shape, surface area, and surface chemistry collectively define the toxicity of nanoparticles. Increased production and intentional (sunscreens, drug delivery) or unintentional (environmental, occupational) exposure to nanoparticles are likely to increase the possibilities of their adverse health effects. It is crucially important that novel nanomaterials must be biologically characterized for their health hazards to ensure risk-free and sustainable implementation of nanotechnology.

Recent advances and future prospects of iron oxide nanoparticles in biomedicine and diagnostics.

Abstract: Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are considered as chemically inert materials and, therefore, being extensively applied in the areas of imaging, targeting, drug delivery and biosensors. Their unique properties such as low toxicity, biocompatibility, potent magnetic and catalytic behavior and superior role in multifunctional modalities have epitomized them as an appropriate candidate for biomedical applications. Recent developments in the area of materials science have enabled the facile synthesis of Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) offering easy tuning of surface properties and surface functionalization with desired biomolecules. Such developments have enabled IONPs to be easily accommodated in nanocomposite platform or devices. Additionally, the tag of biocompatible material has realized their potential in myriad applications of nanomedicines including imaging modalities, sensing, and therapeutics. Further, IONPs enzyme mimetic activity pronounced their role as nanozymes in detecting biomolecules like glucose, and cholesterol etc. Hence, based on their versatile applications in biomedicine, the present review article focusses on the current trends, developments and future prospects of IONPs in MRI, hyperthermia, photothermal therapy, biomolecules detection, chemotherapy, antimicrobial activity and also their role as the multifunctional agent in diagnosis and nanomedicines.