Cellular Effects of Silver Nanoparticle Suspensions on Lung Epithelial Cells and Macrophages

Abstract

Background: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used in industrial applications as catalysts, sanitary materials, and health supplements. Generally, AgNPs have shown cytotoxicity such as cell membrane damage. However, the mechanisms of their toxicity have not been completely elucidated. Methods: The cellular effects (cell viability, induction of chemokine and cellular oxidative stress) of two AgNP water suspensions (AgNP-A for cosmetic application and AgNP-B for industrial application) on epithelial-like A549 cells and macrophage-like differentiated THP-1 (dTHP-1) cells were examined. Results: AgNPs caused enhancement of IL-8 expression and oxidative stress. The cellular uptake of AgNP-A cells was observed. However, the cellular uptake of AgNP-B into A549 cells was hardly observed. Moreover, the intracellular Ag level was increased by AgNP suspensions exposure. Cell viability was not affected by AgNP suspensions exposure. Conclusions: AgNPs induce chemokine expression and cellular oxidative stress on culture cells. The intracellular Ag level may be important for these cellular effects.

Keywords

• silver
• nanoparticle
• cytotoxicity
• interleukin-8
• silver nitrate