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Multi-omics integration identifies ferroptosis involved in black phosphorus quantum dots-induced renal injury
Fengkai Ruan1, Changqian Liu2, Jie Zeng2
1State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Department of Endocrinology, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China; Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
Abstract:
Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) have recently emerged as a highly promising contender in biomedical applications ranging from drug delivery systems to cancer therapy modalities. Nevertheless, the potential toxicity and its effects on human health need to be thoroughly investigated. In this study, we utilized multi-omics integrated approaches to explore the complex mechanisms of BPQDs-induced kidney injury. First, histological examination showed severe kidney injury in male mice after subacute exposure to 1 mg/kg BPQDs for 28 days. Subsequently, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of kidney tissues exposed to BPQDs identified differentially expressed genes and metabolites associated with ferroptosis, an emerging facet of regulated cell death. Our findings highlight the utility of the multi-omics integrated approach in predicting and elucidating potential toxicological outcomes of nanomaterials. Furthermore, our study provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms driving BPQDs-induced kidney injury, underscoring the importance of recognizing ferroptosis as a potential toxic mechanism associated with BPQDs.
Insights
Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) cause kidney injury in mice, linked to ferroptosis. Multi-omics reveals the toxic mechanisms of these nanomaterials.
Area of Science:
- Nanomedicine
- Toxicology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) show promise in biomedical fields.
- Investigating the potential toxicity of BPQDs is crucial for human health.
- Understanding BPQD-induced organ damage is essential for safe application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying BPQD-induced kidney injury.
- To evaluate the toxicological effects of BPQDs using a multi-omics approach.
- To identify specific cellular pathways involved in BPQD toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Subacute exposure of male mice to BPQDs (1 mg/kg for 28 days).
- Histological examination of kidney tissues.
- Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of kidney tissues.
Main Results:
- Histology revealed severe kidney injury in mice exposed to BPQDs.
- Transcriptomic and metabolomic data indicated alterations linked to ferroptosis.
- Identification of differentially expressed genes and metabolites associated with ferroptosis.
Conclusions:
- Multi-omics is effective for predicting nanomaterial toxicity.
- Ferroptosis is a key mechanism in BPQD-induced kidney injury.
- This study provides a comprehensive understanding of BPQD nephrotoxicity.
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