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Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Molten-Salt Synthesis of Complex Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Published on: October 27, 2018
Neurotoxicity and mechanism of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles
Shouying Cao1, Meng Tang2, Changcun Bai3
1School of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Evolution and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, 233000, PR China.
Abstract:
Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, owing to their unique physicochemical properties, have been extensively applied in biomedicine, cell labeling and sorting, drug delivery, and clinical therapy. Their impact on human health and environmental safety is increasingly drawing attention. These nanoparticles can enter the nervous system through multiple pathways, triggering the release of reactive oxygen species and cytokines, leading to blood-brain barrier damage and central nervous system dysfunction. This paper includes a methods section detailing literature search strategies, screening criteria, and time windows. It explores pathways for metal and metal oxide nanoparticles to enter the nervous system and their neurotoxic effects in vivo and in vitro. The influence of developmental stage and gender differences on the neurotoxicity of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles is clearly articulated. It systematically reviews and critically compares key molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity induced by different types of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, revealing their intrinsic connections and cascading effects. It critically evaluates particle effects versus ionic effects and grades the strength of particle-specific toxicity evidence. Factors influencing the toxicity of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, including particle size, exposure concentration, and solubility are discussed. The neurotoxic characteristics and potential unique mechanisms distinguishing these nanoparticles from other nanomaterials are clarified. Possible mechanisms of neurotoxicity and physicochemical factors influencing toxicity are summarized, exploring how physicochemical properties determine interactions with the nervous system and toxicity severity. This review concludes by identifying existing challenges and future research directions regarding the neurotoxic effects of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, providing a reference framework for their safety assessment and neurotoxicity studies.
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