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Published on: April 6, 2017
Systematic influence induced by 3 nm titanium dioxide following intratracheal instillation of mice
Yufeng Li1, Jungang Li, Jilei Yin
1Shanghai Institute of Applied Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800, China.
Abstract:
This work reported the systematic influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) with a diameter of 3 nm on mice. Mice were repeated intratracheally instilled with TiO2 NPs, once per-week for 4 consecutive weeks, at total dose of 13.2 mg/kg. At 28 days post-instillation, the biochemical parameters in broncboalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and brain homogenate as well as histopathologic changes of tissues were examined to describe the subacute toxicity of instilled TiO2 NPs. The results showed that instilled TiO2 NPs could induce lung damage, and change the permeability of alveolar-capillary barrier. The TiO2 NPs were able to get access to blood circulation and reach extrapulmonary tissues, then lead to injury at the different level, such as liver and kidney. Our results also indicated that TiO2 NPs might pass through the blood-brain barrier (BBB), and induce the brain injury through oxidative stress response.
Insights
This study reveals that titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) can cause lung damage and spread to organs like the liver and kidney in mice. These nanoparticles may also cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially leading to brain injury.
Area of Science:
- Nanotoxicology
- Environmental Health
- Biomedical Science
Background:
- Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are widely used, necessitating an understanding of their toxicological profiles.
- Previous research has indicated potential health risks associated with nanoparticle exposure.
- The specific effects of intratracheally instilled TiO2 NPs on systemic toxicity require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the subacute toxicity of 3 nm TiO2 NPs following repeated intratracheal instillation in mice.
- To assess the translocation of TiO2 NPs from the lungs to extrapulmonary organs.
- To investigate the potential for TiO2 NPs to induce brain injury and the underlying mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Mice were intratracheally instilled with 3 nm TiO2 NPs weekly for four weeks (total dose: 13.2 mg/kg).
- Biochemical parameters in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and brain homogenates were analyzed 28 days post-instillation.
- Histopathological examination of tissues was performed to identify toxic effects.
Main Results:
- Intratracheal instillation of TiO2 NPs induced lung damage and altered alveolar-capillary barrier permeability.
- TiO2 NPs translocated into the bloodstream, leading to injuries in extrapulmonary tissues, including the liver and kidney.
- Evidence suggests TiO2 NPs may cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), inducing brain injury via oxidative stress.
Conclusions:
- Repeated intratracheal instillation of TiO2 NPs causes systemic toxicity, affecting the lungs, liver, and kidneys.
- The translocation of TiO2 NPs to extrapulmonary organs highlights potential risks associated with inhalation exposure.
- TiO2 NPs pose a risk to brain health, potentially through oxidative stress mechanisms following BBB penetration.
