Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Preparation of Silica Nanoparticles Through Microwave-assisted Acid-catalysis
Published on: December 16, 2013
The toxicity of silica nanoparticles to the immune system
Liangjiao Chen1, Jia Liu2, Yanli Zhang2
1Key Laboratory of Oral Medicine, Guangzhou Institute of Oral Disease, Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510140, PR China.
Abstract:
Silicon-based materials and their oxides are widely used in drug delivery, dietary supplements, implants and dental fillers. Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) interact with immunocompetent cells and induce immunotoxicity. However, the toxic effects of SiNPs on the immune system have been inadequately reviewed. The toxicity of SiNPs to the immune system depends on their physicochemical properties and the cell type. Assessments of immunotoxicity include determining cell dysfunctions, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. This review focuses on the immunotoxicity of SiNPs and investigates the underlying mechanisms. The main mechanisms were proinflammatory responses, oxidative stress and autophagy. Considering the toxicity of SiNPs, surface and shape modifications may mitigate the toxic effects of SiNPs, providing a new way to produce these nanomaterials with less toxic impaction.
Related Concept Videos
What is the Immune System?
Silica Gel Column Chromatography: Overview
Polar components tend to bind strongly to the silica gel, causing them to move slowly through the column. In contrast, nonpolar compounds...
Humoral Immune Responses
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Active versus Passive Immunity
Active Immunity
Active immunity refers to the resistance one develops...
Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System
The immune responses can be categorized into two types: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity comprises nonspecific defenses we are...

