Optimized method for preparation of TiO2 nanoparticles dispersion for biological study

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Stable nanoparticle dispersions are crucial for accurate biological studies.
• Titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles are widely used in biomedical applications.
• Challenges exist in preparing stable TiO2 nanoparticle suspensions for in vitro and in vivo research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a practical and effective method for preparing stable dispersions of TiO2 nanoparticles (rutile/anatase).
• To evaluate various stabilizers and sonication parameters for optimal nanoparticle suspension.
• To ensure the suitability of the prepared dispersions for subsequent biological assessments.

Main Methods:

• TiO2 nanoparticle dispersions were prepared in distilled water using varying ultrasound energies and stabilizers (carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose K4M, fetal bovine serum, bovine serum albumin).
• Nanoparticle size, agglomerate size, and sedimentation rates were analyzed using dynamic light scattering, TEM, and optical absorbance.
• In vitro cytotoxicity of stabilizers was assessed using the MTT assay on 16-HBE cells.

Main Results:

• An optimized protocol involved vortexing, ultrasonic dispersion in distilled water, addition of stabilizers, and final sonication.
• Ultrasound energy of 33 W for 10 min effectively disaggregated TiO2 nanoparticles.
• Fetal bovine serum (FBS) emerged as the most suitable stabilizer, significantly reducing agglomeration and supporting cell viability, maintaining dispersion stability for at least 120 hours.

Conclusions:

• A reproducible method for stable TiO2 nanoparticle dispersion using FBS as a stabilizer has been established.
• The developed method is practical for preparing TiO2 nanoparticle suspensions for biological research.
• The findings facilitate further in vivo and in vitro investigations of TiO2 nanoparticle behavior.