The Truth of Toxicity Caused by Yttrium Oxide Nanoparticles to Yeast Cells

Yttrium oxide (Y₂O₃) nanoparticles have widespread applications; however, toxicity due to these nanoparticles has also been reported. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro toxicity of Y₂O₃ nanoparticles according to the technical specifications published by the International Standard Organization (ISO/TS 19337:2016). We used Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model microorganism represented the environment. We carried out catch ball analysis of yttrium oxide and yttrium ion toxicities. The result showed that Y₂O₃ nanoparticles (20 mg/5 ml) and YCl₃ (5 mg/5 ml) treatment caused oxidative stress in yeast cells. Based on transcriptome analysis, fluorescent spectroscopy, and solubility analysis of Y₂O₃ nanoparticles, we conclude that the toxicity is due to yttrium ions derived from the nanoparticles. The ions induce oxidative stress and cause protein denaturation, which in turn induces proteasome formation to eliminate denatured proteins. Yttrium nanoparticles induce oxidative stress, which has associated with heavy metal ions. Thus, the use of yttrium nanoparticles or yttrium ions must be controlled like heavy metals.