Cardiovascular Toxicity of Metal-Based Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Environmental Health
• Cardiovascular Toxicology
• Nanomedicine Safety

Background:

• Increasing human exposure to metal-based nanoparticles (MNPs) via inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact.
• Growing concerns regarding the potential health effects of MNPs due to their unique nanoscale properties.
• MNPs can translocate from exposure sites to the circulatory system and accumulate within the body.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cardiovascular toxicity induced by MNPs.
• To highlight MNP biodistribution, cytotoxic mechanisms, and pathological impacts on cardiovascular diseases.
• To synthesize recent in vitro and in vivo findings on MNP cardiovascular effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on MNP cardiovascular toxicity.
• Analysis of studies examining MNP biodistribution and accumulation.
• Examination of research on cytotoxic mechanisms (oxidative stress, apoptosis, ferroptosis) in cardiovascular cells.
• Inclusion of in vitro and in vivo studies.

Main Results:

• MNPs disrupt endothelial function and promote oxidative stress.
• MNPs induce apoptosis and ferroptosis in cardiovascular cells.
• Increased endothelial permeability, impaired blood-brain barrier integrity, and enhanced procoagulant activity contribute to vascular and cardiac dysfunction.
• Synergistic role of MNPs and released metal ions in toxicity.

Conclusions:

• MNPs pose significant risks to the cardiovascular system.
• Understanding MNP-induced cardiovascular toxicity is crucial for public health.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the full spectrum of MNP cardiovascular impacts.