Nano silver-induced toxicity and associated mechanisms

Nano Silver-Induced Toxicity and Associated Mechanisms Introduction Nano silver refers to silver particles with at least one dimension less than 100 nm. These particles possess unique physical and chemical properties, such as high specific surface area, strong surface reactivity, and potent inter-particle interaction. Nano silver is widely applied in various fields, including imaging, diagnostics, medicine, artistic preservation, cosmetics, food packaging, agriculture, and the poultry industry. Its unique biological properties, notably its stronger antibacterial activity compared to ordinary silver, have made it increasingly prevalent in everyday products. However, despite its benefits, the potential toxic effects of nano silver and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This article aims to provide a detailed overview of nano silver-induced toxicity and associated mechanisms to enhance understanding and facilitate safer applications. Are you interested in learning more about nano-silver powder? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation! Different Routes of Exposure to Nano Silver and Its Distribution in the Body Due to its widespread use, individuals are exposed to nano silver through ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, and direct entry into systemic circulation via intraperitoneal or intravenous injection. Industrial processes contribute to the discharge of nano silver into groundwater, leading to its accumulation in the aquatic ecosystem and subsequent intake by humans. After oral intake, nano silver is absorbed and distributed to various organs. When inhaled, it primarily accumulates in the lungs before being transported to other tissues. Nano silver can also penetrate through the skin and is directly distributed to multiple organs when injected. Various routes of exposure to nano silver in the human body. Toxicity of Nano Silver to Organs Exposure routes, particle size, aggregation state, and dosage of nano silver dictate its bioavailability and pathological effects. Research using animal models illustrates nano silver's toxic impact on different organs. Intestine and Liver Nano silver exhibits a superior barrier function, antibacterial property, and mechanical strength, leading to its use in daily necessities and packaging materials. Upon ingestion, these nanoparticles traverse the stomach, dissolve under acidic conditions, and move to the intestine and liver. Studies reveal that a significant portion of administered nano-silver accumulates in the liver, causing potential hepatotoxicity and impacting the delivery to targeted diseased tissues. Nano silver exposure increases protein phosphorylation in colonic epithelial cells, promoting apoptosis and necrosis in the liver. Lungs Inhalation studies demonstrate that nanoparticles are less efficiently removed by macrophages compared to larger particles, leading to their retention and damage in the lungs, or transport to distal tissues. The redox properties of nano silver induce oxidative stress, impacting mitochondrial function and epithelial tight junction proteins, thus compromising lung homeostasis. Heart Research indicates that nano silver disrupts heart functions by inhibiting ion channels in cardiomyocytes, causing rapid loss of transmembrane potential and excitability. It also triggers abnormal changes in cardiac-related genes, adversely affecting cardiomyocyte development and ion balance. Reproductive Organs The potential risks of nano silver on reproduction are alarming. Silver nanoparticles can cross the blood-testis barrier, exhibiting cytotoxicity and cytostatic properties that lead to DNA damage in testicular cells, thus impacting fertility and reproduction. Interested in learning about Nano Silver for Antibacterial Plastics On Sale? Please contact us. We will provide professional answers. Toxicity of Nano Silver to Cells Nano silver generates reactive oxygen species (ROS), damaging the cytoskeleton and DNA, and upregulating autophagy to induce apoptosis. It affects cellular metabolism, membrane potential, endocytosis, autophagy, mitochondria, and other subcellular structures. Effects on the Cell Membrane Nano silver interferes with ion channels and membrane proteins, impairing cell barrier and material exchange functions, leading to cell necrosis. It also disrupts bacterial cell membrane integrity, enhancing antibiotic penetration and efficacy. Effects on Endocytosis Nano silver enters cells via endocytosis, inducing morphological changes, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and apoptosis. Endosomal escape and ROS release from lysosomes contribute to higher cytotoxicity. Subcellular Cytotoxicity Nano silver causes mitochondrial damage, ER stress, and lysosomal dysfunction, leading to apoptosis and necrosis. Promising Methods to Overcome Nano Silver-Induced Cytotoxicity Strategies to mitigate nano silver toxicity include optimizing particle size, surface functionalization, and developing composite preparations. These approaches aim to reduce toxicity while preserving antimicrobial efficacy. Summary and Outlook Nano silver, while beneficial, poses potential health risks due to its cytotoxicity. Understanding its mechanisms and effects is crucial for safer applications. Future research should focus on elucidating its long-term impacts, optimizing its properties, and ensuring its safe use in various fields. For more information, please visit nanosilver antibacterial powder.