In vivo toxicologic study of larger silica nanoparticles in mice

Abstract

Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) are being studied and used for medical purposes. As nanotechnology grows rapidly, its biosafety and toxicity have frequently raised concerns. However, diverse results have been reported about the safety of SiNPs; several studies reported that smaller particles might exhibit toxic effects to some cell lines, and larger particles of 100 nm were reported to be genotoxic to the cocultured cells. Here, we investigated the in vivo toxicity of SiNPs of 150 nm in various dosages via intravenous administration in mice. The mice were observed for 14 days before blood examination and histopathological assay. All the mice survived and behaved normally after the administration of nanoparticles. No significant weight change was noted. Blood examinations showed no definite systemic dysfunction of organ systems. Histopathological studies of vital organs confirmed no SiNP-related adverse effects. We concluded that 150 nm SiNPs were biocompatible and safe for in vivo use in mice.

In vivo investigation on the chronic hepatotoxicity induced by intraperitoneal administration of 10-nm silicon dioxide nanoparticles

“…25 Conversely, some studies have shown that large (150 nm) SDNPs do not induce histological alterations in vital organs. 55 The current study showed that SDNPs can induce hepatic hydropic degeneration, pyknosis, sinusoidal dilatation and Kupffer cells hyperplasia. These observations are evidence of liver damage in rats exposed to SDNPs.…”

Silica nanoparticle-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage is followed by activation of intrinsic apoptosis pathway in glioblastoma cells

“…41 Additionally, animal models have demonstrated the biocompatibility and relative safety of SiNPs for in vivo use in mice and rats. 42,43 This relatively low toxicity in normal brain cells and high cytotoxicity in malignant cells make SiNPs an attractive agent for glioblastoma treatment, either as a single therapeutic or a drug carrier.…”

Evaluation of the potential of nanoparticles containing active substances in selected chronic diseases

“…In turn, Chan et al conducted research on the safety of using silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs). 41 The toxicity of SiNPs, which were 150 nm in size, was measured in vivo in a mouse model. The mice were administered NPs intravenously and underwent observation for 14 days.…”

“…In this study, the occurrence of adverse effects after the administration of SiNPs was not confirmed. 41 However, some studies have suggested that intravenous administration of SiNPs may lead to their distribution/accumulation in the liver, spleen and lungs, with subsequent damage of these organs. 42 Myocardial infarction can lead to organ failure, thereby necessitating transplantation.…”