Genotoxicity of TiO(2) Nanoparticles in Four Different Human Cell Lines (A549, HEPG2, A172 and SH-SY5Y)

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO(2) NPs) have a wide variety of applications in many consumer products, including as food additives, increasing the concern about the possible hazards that TiO(2) NPs may pose to human health. Although most previous studies have focused on the respiratory system, ingestion must also be considered as an important exposure route. Furthermore, after inhalation or ingestion, TiO(2) NPs can reach several organs, such as the liver, brain or lungs. Taking this into consideration, the present study focuses on the uptake and potential genotoxicity (micronuclei induction) of TiO(2) NPs on four human cell lines of diverse origin: lung cells (A549), liver cells (HepG2), glial cells (A172) and neurons (SH-SY5Y), using flow cytometry methods. Results showed a concentration-, time- and cell-type- dependent increase in TiO(2) NPs uptake but no significant induction of micronuclei in any of the tested conditions. Data obtained reinforce the importance of cell model and testing protocols choice for toxicity assessment. However, some questions remain to be answered, namely on the role of cell culture media components on the agglomeration state and mitigation of TiO(2) NPs toxic effects.