ICON--International Council on Nanotechnology: A partnership for nanotechnology stewardship and sustainability

Rice University
CBEN
Virtual Journal
International Council on Nanotechnology
ICON Web & News Virtual Journal Everything
 
International Council on Nanotechnology
Join Us - ICON About - ICON ICON Newsroom ICON Working Groups Projects ICON Resources Virtual Journal ICON Events International Council on Nanotechnology International Council on Nanotechnology International Council on Nanotechnology

Resources

Virtual Journal 
Analyze Database
ICON Reports
ICON Backgrounders
Glossary
Policy Reports
Links


Quick Search:

Keywords:

Search:


Search Using OECD Database
Details Return to Previous Page Addition or Correction
Title: Nanoparticles can cause DNA damage across a cellular barrier
Date: 11/2009
  Link to Journal Abstract
Abstract: The increasing use of nanoparticles in medicine has raised concerns over their ability to gain access to privileged sites in the body. Here, we show that cobalt–chromium nanoparticles (29.5 6.3 nm in diameter) can damage human fibroblast cells across an intact cellular barrier without having to cross the barrier. The damage is mediated by a novel mechanism involving transmission of purine nucleotides (such as ATP) and intercellular signalling within the barrier through connexin gap junctions or hemichannels and pannexin channels. The outcome, which includes DNA damage without significant cell death, is different from that observed in cells subjected to direct exposure to nanoparticles. Our results suggest the importance of indirect effects when evaluating the safety of nanoparticles. The potential damage to tissues located behind cellular barriers needs to be considered when using nanoparticles for targeting diseased states.
Non-technical Summary: In this study, the ability of cobalt-chromium nanoparticles (29.5 6.3 nm in diameter) to damage human fibroblast cells across an intact cellular barrier without having to cross the barrier is examined in order to understand the importance of indirect effects when evaluating the safety of nanoparticles.
Content Emphasis Peer Reviewed Journal Article
Exposure Or Hazard Target Mammalian
Exposure Pathway Other/Unspecified
Method Of Study In Vitro
Paper Type Hazard
Particle Type Metal
Production Method Engineered
Risk Exposure Group General Population
Target Audience Technical Research
Citation: Nature Nanotechnology, Advanced Online Publication, DOI: 10.1038/nnano.2009.313
Publication: Nature Nanotechnology
Author: Bhabra G, Sood A, Fisher B, Cartwright L, Saunders M, Evans WH, Surprenant A, Lopez-Castejon G, Mann S, Davis SA, Hails LA, Ingham E, Verkade P, Lane J, Heesom K, Newson R, Case CP
Volume: Advance online publi
     


Last updated on November 6, 2009
Permalink



Join Us | About | Newsroom | Working Groups | Projects | Resources | Virtual Journal | Events | Logout

This work is supported in part by the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Initiative of the National Science Foundation
under NSF Award Number EEC-0118007.

 		 
Rice University