Efficient extraction and analysis method for lead-containing nanoparticles in complex biological samples to eliminate...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Metal-containing nanoparticles (MNPs) are widespread in the environment and organisms.
• Their extraction and analysis in biological samples present significant challenges due to interferences from other metal species and complex matrices.
• Understanding the fate and toxicity of MNPs requires accurate analytical methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an efficient and accurate method for extracting and analyzing MNPs in biological samples.
• To eliminate interference from metal ions and biological matrices during MNP analysis.
• To investigate the occurrence and distribution of lead nanoparticles (PbNPs) in organisms exposed to environmental sources.

Main Methods:

• Developed an alkali extraction method combined with single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS).
• Utilized ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and ultrasonic treatment during tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH) extraction to mitigate interferences.
• Applied the method to analyze biological tissues collected near a power plant.

Main Results:

• The established method effectively eliminated interference signals from lead ions, preventing false positives and overestimation of lead nanoparticles (PbNPs).
• Interference signals of PbNPs were observed in various biological matrices, including liver, brain, bile, intestine, and stomach.
• PbNPs were successfully extracted, characterized, and quantified in stomach, intestine, and liver tissues, indicating oral exposure and potential translocation.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides a reliable and powerful tool for the efficient extraction and accurate analysis of MNPs in biological samples.
• This technique is crucial for investigating the occurrence, fate, and toxicity of MNPs in environmental and biological systems.
• The findings highlight the presence of PbNPs in exposed organisms, underscoring the need for further toxicological assessments.