Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 1, 2026
14:53
In Situ Detection and Single Cell Quantification of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Nuclear Microprobe Analysis
Published on: February 3, 2018
7.6K
Titanium Nanoparticle Size Influences Trace Concentration Levels in Skin Appendages
Deborah R Tasat1,2, Mariela G Domingo3, Marcos E Bruno3
11 School of Science and Technology, National University of General San Martín, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Toxicologic Pathology
|June 6, 2017
Summary
Titanium nanoparticles (NPs) from biomedical devices can contaminate the body. Smaller 5 Nm titanium NPs accumulate more in skin appendages like nails and hair than larger 10 Nm NPs, indicating nails are a reliable bioindicator for titanium contamination.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Nanotechnology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Biotribocorrosion of titanium (Ti) biomedical devices can release Ti nanoparticles (NPs).
- Differences in NP size may influence biological responses and distribution.
- Systemic contamination via Ti NPs is a growing concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify Ti trace levels in skin appendages (nails, hair) and plasma.
- To investigate the impact of Ti NP size (5 Nm vs. 10 Nm) on trace levels.
- To identify a reliable bioindicator for monitoring Ti NP systemic contamination.
Main Methods:
- Murine model used to study Ti NP biodistribution.
- Analysis of Ti trace levels in nails, hair, and plasma.
- Comparison of Ti concentrations for different NP sizes (5 Nm and 10 Nm).
Main Results:
- Ti traces were detected in nails, hair, and plasma.
- Smaller 5 Nm Ti NPs showed higher concentrations than 10 Nm NPs in all samples.
- Ti levels were consistently higher in skin appendages than in plasma.
- Nail Ti concentrations were higher than hair Ti concentrations.
Conclusions:
- Ti NP size influences trace concentration levels in hair and nails.
- 5 Nm Ti particles appear to be more readily eliminated through skin appendages.
- Nails are proposed as the most suitable and reliable bioindicator for monitoring systemic Ti contamination due to higher Ti levels and lack of external leaching factors.
