Interaction and toxicity of ingested nanoparticles on the intestinal barrier

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Toxicology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Nanomaterials are increasingly used in food additives and packaging due to their unique properties.
• Humans are exposed to nanoparticles (NPs) through diet, air, and water, leading to oral ingestion.
• The gastrointestinal tract is a primary route for NP entry, where they interact with the intestinal environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the fate of ingested organic and inorganic NPs within the intestinal lumen.
• To investigate the toxicity of ingested NPs on the gut microbiota and epithelial cells.
• To highlight the current knowledge gaps regarding the toxicological profile of orally ingested NPs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on oral nanoparticle exposure and gastrointestinal interactions.
• Analysis of research on NP behavior in the intestinal lumen, including interactions with fluids, mucus, and microbiota.
• Evaluation of toxicological data concerning NP effects on intestinal epithelial barrier function and microbial communities.

Main Results:

• Ingested NPs interact with the complex intestinal environment, including host cells and microbiota.
• The toxicological effects of NPs vary widely based on their composition and physicochemical properties.
• Limited investigations have been conducted, leaving the overall toxicological profile of ingested NPs unclear.
• Potential translocation across the intestinal barrier and effects on barrier integrity are areas of concern.

Conclusions:

• Further research is crucial to understand the interactions and potential toxicity of ingested NPs.
• The unique properties of NPs warrant careful evaluation of their impact on the intestinal ecosystem and barrier function.
• Clarifying the toxicological profile of orally ingested NPs is essential for risk assessment in food and health.