Toxicity, preparation methods and applications of silver nanoparticles: an update

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) exhibit diverse beneficial properties, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects.
• Applications span water treatment, cosmetics, and textiles, necessitating safety evaluations.
• Regulatory guidelines for safe exposure limits have been established by health agencies worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity of silver nanoparticles.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of AgNP toxicity.
• To summarize the detection methods for AgNP toxicity in both in vitro and in vivo studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies on silver nanoparticle toxicity.
• Analysis of mechanisms, including mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
• Discussion of detection techniques such as comet assay, MTT assay, flow cytometry, and histological analysis.

Main Results:

• Silver nanoparticle toxicity mechanisms primarily involve mitochondrial respiratory chain disruption, leading to ROS production and ATP synthesis inhibition.
• ROS generation is a key factor in the cascade of toxic events.
• Various assays effectively evaluate different types of toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Understanding silver nanoparticle toxicity mechanisms is crucial for ensuring safe application.
• Standardized detection methods are essential for risk assessment.
• Further research is needed to fully characterize AgNP toxicity and establish comprehensive safety protocols.