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Imprint
Chemical Imaging of Human Cells after Exposure to Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in vitro
Project
Project code: BfR-PRS-08-1322-425
Contract period: 01.01.2009
- 31.12.2010
Purpose of research: Applied research
Their UV ray absorbing properties make nano-sized metal oxides such as zinc and titanium oxide a common ingredient in products such as sunscreens, but it is also used in paints, plastics and other commodities. Opposed to these positive features are the largely unknown health risks. Possible toxic effects posed by nano-sized particles in part may be due to their different physico-chemical properties resulting from the relatively large surface area. For example, size and dose-related cytotoxic effects of zinc oxide have been detected after exposure of vascular endothelial cells and murine primary embryonic fibroblasts in vitro. Due to their antimicrobial properties, nanoparticulate silver is increasingly used for various types of consumer products such as lingerie, food packaging materials, toothbrushes, pillows and others. Here, we propose to study the initial biochemical events induced by different cell types upon exposure to selected nanoparticles in vitro by using various spectroscopic methods and thus aim to contribute substantially to the urgently needed risk assessment of these novel materials. Being fast, cheap, sensitive and simple, the FTIR microspectroscopic method shall be established for this purpose. Additionally, the differentiation of neural progenitor cells into mature neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes shall further be characterized and optimized.
Section overview
Subjects
- Biotechnology
- Toxicology
