Exploring the Dynamic Interplay of Carbon Nanotubes with Apoptosis In-vitro and In-vivo: Insights from Bcl-2 and IAP...

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are carbon-based nanomaterials. They have been widely used in environmental technologies and in biomedical fields.

This study examines the impact of carboxyl-functionalized multi-walled (MWCNTs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) on apoptosis in Jurkat cells and Wistar rats.

The methods included functionalizing CNTs, conducting cell culture experiments with Jurkat cells, and performing in-vivo studies on male Wistar rats. Gene expression, particularly the Bcl-2 family, was analyzed using real-time PCR, and statistical analyses assessed group differences.

Results showed successful CNT functionalization and a slight reduction in cell viability in exposed groups. Gene expression analysis in Jurkat cells treated by MWCNTs and SWCNTs revealed significant upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes (BAD, BAX, BID, BCL2L11) and anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, BCL2L1). Additionally, significant increases in IAP family members, BIRC2 and BIRC3, were observed in these cells. In treated animals, a transient increase in Bcl-2 and BAD expression was observed after 30 days, with no significant changes after 60 days. Unlike Bcl-2 family members, IAP family gene expression (BIRC2, BIRC3) remained unchanged in the treated animal model over the same periods.

CNT exposure led to significant modulation of apoptotic pathways in Jurkat cells, including alterations in gene expression of some members of the Bcl-2 and IAP family, while the animal models showed transient changes in Bcl-2 family gene expression but no alterations in IAP gene expression. These findings highlight the complex interactions between CNTs and biological systems, underscoring the need for further research on the long-term effects and adaptation mechanisms in organisms exposed to CNTs.