Plasmonic photothermal therapy (PTT) offers a promising route for selective cancer treatment through laser-activated metallic nanoparticles (NPs). Here, we systematically evaluated how NP geometry, size, and elemental composition govern photothermal toxicity responses in healthy fibroblasts (L929) and lung carcinoma cells (A549) under both laser-free and 808 nm laser-irradiated conditions. Spherical, rod-shaped, and star-shaped gold nanoparticles (AuNP, AuNR, AuNS), together with spherical and prismatic silver nanoparticles (AgNP, AgNPr), were synthesized, characterized, and assessed across multiple biological endpoints. Cellular viability (MTT), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, DNA damage (Comet assay), inflammatory cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10), and apoptosis (Annexin V/PI staining and caspase-3/9 activation) were systematically analyzed. Laser activation markedly amplified cancer-selective cytotoxicity, with AuNR and AgNPr exhibiting the strongest photothermal responses while largely sparing healthy cells. AuNR and 20 nm AuNP induced pronounced ROS generation and caspase-dependent apoptosis in A549 cells upon irradiation, whereas AgNPr preferentially promoted DNA damage and inflammatory signaling in cancer cells with minimal effects in L929 cells. Across all nanostructures, laser irradiation selectively intensified genotoxic and inflammatory responses in tumor cells, highlighting a strong dependence on nanoparticle geometry and plasmonic resonance matching. Collectively, these results demonstrate that NP shape and photothermal activation synergistically dictate therapeutic/toxic effects and selectivity. AuNR and AgNPr emerge as leading candidates for precision PTT, combining potent anticancer activity with favorable biocompatibility. This work provides mechanistic insight into structure-activity relationships in plasmonic PTT and informs the rational design of next-generation photothermal nanotherapeutics.
New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) are increasingly needed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of nanomaterials in biomedicine while generating human-relevant evidence and reducing reliance on animal studies. For therapeutic nanoformulations, single in vitro assays often fail to capture the sequence of events that determines both functional performance and potential adverse outcomes, including interaction with exposure interfaces, epithelial transport, and response at the target tissue. Here, we present an integrated human-relevant NAMs workflow to evaluate selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) stabilised with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or polysorbate 20 (Tween). These SeNPs were used as a relevant nanomedical case study, as such systems are increasingly being designed with antioxidant, neuroprotective, and drug-delivery properties. The workflow combined three complementary in vitro models: a tri-culture alveolar barrier at a semi-air-liquid interface, a mucus-competent intestinal barrier with continuous transepithelial electrical resistance monitoring, and differentiated dopaminergic-like SH-SY5Y neurons, representing two major therapeutic administration interfaces and a disease-relevant downstream neuronal target. Across models, SeNPs showed coating- and cell-type-dependent cytotoxicity, preserved barrier integrity at non-cytotoxic doses, and exhibited measurable basolateral transport. Neuronal uptake was confirmed, and both SeNP formulations attenuated L-dopa-induced oxidative stress without eliciting measurable pro-inflammatory cytokine release at effective concentrations. By linking two administration-relevant epithelial barrier models with a disease-relevant neuronal target, this study demonstrates how integrated NAMs can support early de-risking, formulation prioritisation, and more informed preclinical development of nanomedical systems.
Modern agriculture is under increasing pressure to meet the food demands of a growing global population while reducing the environmental and health impacts associated with intensive chemical inputs. This study aims to evaluate the role of nanotechnology in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on its applications in crop nutrition, crop protection, soil and water management, and post-harvest preservation. The review highlights that nano-fertilizers, particularly those containing essential nutrients such as zinc, phosphorus, and nitrogen, significantly improve nutrient use efficiency, enhance photosynthetic performance, and increase plant resilience to abiotic stress compared to conventional fertilizers. Similarly, nano-pesticides and nano-herbicides enable targeted and controlled delivery of active compounds, resulting in reduced agrochemical usage and minimized adverse effects on non-target organisms and ecosystems. In addition, nanomaterials contribute to soil health by improving water retention, nutrient availability, and overall fertility, while their application in water purification enhances irrigation quality. Post-harvest technologies, including antimicrobial nano-coatings and smart packaging systems, have also been shown to effectively extend shelf life and reduce food losses along the supply chain. These findings suggest that nanotechnology offers a promising pathway toward improving agricultural efficiency while addressing environmental sustainability concerns. However, further research is needed to assess long-term ecological impacts, scalability, and regulatory frameworks. Overall, the integration of nanotechnology into agricultural systems has the potential to support resilient, resource-efficient, and sustainable food production for the future.
The complexity of nanoparticle toxicity necessitates applying machine learning to large toxicological datasets to identify predictive features and toxicity rules. This study investigates the relationships between the physicochemical properties of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs), external experimental parameters, and toxicity under in vitro conditions. Data from the literature, databases, and in-house experiments were balanced using our Balanced Fitted Dose-Response approach, yielding nearly equal numbers of concentration data points across toxicity levels. The CatBoost algorithm outperformed Decision Tree models in predicting SiNP toxicity. The Catboost Shapley value analysis revealed the following sequence of feature importance: Mass > Total Surface Area > Serum > Total NP Number ∼ Primary Size > Exposure Time > Chemical Surface Modification > Cell Age > Cell Culture > Cell Disease. Rule extraction from a transparent decision-tree model revealed detailed information on the interrelationships among the features of surface-modified SiNPs and their toxicity. It showed that surface-unmodified SiNPs-OH are more toxic than surface-modified SiNPs-NH2 and SiNPs-COOH. Adsorption and uptake measurements by imaging flow cytometry, employing alveolar macrophages, revealed significantly higher adsorption for SiNPs-OH compared with modified SiNPs, while uptake of SiNPs-OH was lower. The integration of computational and experimental findings suggests that adsorption of SiNPs to the macrophage membrane contributes to their toxicity, in addition to internalization, providing valuable insight into the mechanisms underlying nanoparticle safety.
The widespread presence of polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) in the human body has raised concerns about their potential biological toxicity. When assessing the safety of nanoparticles and other xenobiotics, a key aspect is their effect on blood cells, particularly erythrocytes, which experience the most direct exposure to nanoparticles circulating in the bloodstream. The present study evaluated the impact of non-functionalized PS-NPs with diameters of ∼30 nm, ∼45 nm, and ∼70 nm on human red blood cells after 24 hours of incubation. The studied PS-NPs did not influence intracellular Ca2+ ion levels or caspase 3 activity, and did not induce phosphatidylserine translocation at pre-hemolytic concentrations (below 100 µg/mL). Moreover, exposure did not increase intracellular ROS levels at any of the tested concentrations, suggesting that generalized intracellular oxidative stress is likely not the primary mechanism underlying the effects induced by PS-NPs in human erythrocytes. However, the observed increase in lipid peroxidation, detected from 50 µg/ml, indicates that oxidative damage at the membrane level may contribute to the overall toxic response. The results suggest that PS-NPs interact primarily with the erythrocyte membrane, leading to membrane destabilization associated with increased calpain activity, observed already at a concentration of 1 µg/mL, and enhanced lipid peroxidation. It is noteworthy that the most pronounced changes were induced by the smallest nanoparticles (∼30 nm), suggesting a size-dependent effect on erythrocyte integrity. These findings suggest that PS-NP toxicity in erythrocytes is mediated mainly through red blood cell membrane destabilization rather than classical intracellular oxidative stress alone.
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly recognized as ubiquitous environmental pollutants; however, their role in tumor metastasis remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the impact of polystyrene nanoplastics on breast cancer lung metastasis and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Using a mouse model of breast cancer, we demonstrated that inhalation of amino-modified polystyrene nanoplastics (NPS) significantly increased the number of metastatic nodules in the lungs. Mechanistically, NPS were found to bind integrins on the macrophage membrane and activated membrane-localized N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), thereby inducing intracellular sodium overload. This process led to macrophage swelling, detachment, and subsequent pulmonary inflammation. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition or genetic knockdown of NMDARs effectively suppressed NPS-induced sodium influx and macrophage death, and markedly alleviated pulmonary inflammation in vivo. Collectively, these findings reveal that nanoplastics promote lung metastasis by disrupting cellular sodium homeostasis and thereby providing new insights into the potential health risks associated with nanoplastics exposure.
Nanosilica represents a promising material for insect pest management. This study compared the physicochemical properties and entomotoxic effects of nanosilica and microsilica powders against Crocidolomia pavonana larvae. The X-Ray-Fluorescence and X-Ray-Diffraction analysis confirmed higher purity in nanosilica (99.9%) than in microsilica (86.2%), with both showing amorphous structures. Particle size distribution and morphological analysis showed that nanosilica had an average particle diameter of 206.7 ± 127.7 nm, while microsilica measured 1144 ± 290.6 nm and formed a semi-spherical aggregate. Brunauer-Emmett-Teller revealed that nanosilica had a larger pore surface area (317 m2/g), total pore volume (1.539 cm³/g), and an average pore diameter (13.123 nm) compared to microsilica. Dust spray method confirmed that nanosilica had higher entomotoxicity than microsilica against C. pavonana 2nd instar larvae. This was observed from the 100% mortality achieved by nanosilica at all concentrations (N1-N4) at 72 hours (P < 0.05), whereas a similar trend was only observed at the highest microsilica concentration (M4). The median lethal concentration analysis showed that microsilica was more toxic at 24 hours (LC50 = 0.395 mg/cm2), whereas nanosilica exhibited higher toxicity at 48 and 72 hours with a lower LC50 value of 0.137 mg/cm2 and 0.106 mg/cm2. The shortest median lethal time was recorded for N4 (LT50 = 26.85 hours) treatment, indicating a faster lethal effect than M4 (LT50 = 30.91 hours) treatment. The morphological alterations in larvae included desiccation, cuticle damage, and nanosilica entrapped in the spiracle trichome, which potentially led to an obstruction. The results showed the strong insecticidal potential of nanosilica as an alternative for managing cabbage pests.
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) enable enhanced magnetic drug targeting and theranostic applications. This study investigated potential toxic effects of SPIONs developed for drug delivery applications. Gold-modified SPIONs (SPION-Au-Cit) produced via alkaline precipitation were analyzed in terms of their hydrodynamic size, ζ-potential, magnetic susceptibility, and crystal structure. Biocompatibility of SPION-Au-Cit was tested in vitro in human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs) and primary human fibroblasts, as well as in vivo, in chick embryos. SPION-Au-Cit had a hydrodynamic diameter of 120 nm and ζ potential of -60 mV at pH 7. In the flow cytometric analyses, SPION-Au-Cit were well tolerated by primary human fibroblasts up to a concentration of 25 µg Fe/mL, but were toxic to HUVECs at and above 10 µg Fe/mL. In contrast, endothelial toxicity was less pronounced in real-time cell analysis and wound-healing assays, although the particles were strongly internalized by HUVECs. The injection of SPION-Au-Cit (45 µg) into chick embryos resulted in progressive hemoglobin oxidation, leading to high fetal toxicity. The magnetic accumulation of SPIONs under flow conditions was investigated in vitro and modeled in silico. Under arterial-like flow conditions in vitro, a strong time-dependent magnetic accumulation of SPION-Au-Cit was observed at a concentration of 2.5 µg Fe/mL. SPION-Au-Cit showed pronounced toxicity in endothelial cells and chick embryos. Although the magnetic properties of SPION-Au-Cit enable their effective accumulation even under flow conditions, their potential biomedical applications would require both precise targeting and careful dose-finding studies to prevent harmful off-target effects.
The high expression of classically activated macrophages (M1) subtypes and the elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are specifically observed in osteoarthritis (OA) patients. In this study, we synthesized a Pd@CeO2 nanozyme with a core-shell hetero-nanostructure that enhances enzyme activity through shell-core electron transfer. The goal of this work was to look into the potential of Pd@CeO2 nanozyme in scavenging ROS and regulating macrophages for the treatment of OA. The results demonstrated that the Pd@CeO2 nanozyme displayed multiple enzyme-like antioxidative activities, efficiently eliminating excessive intracellular ROS. This resulted in a significant decrease in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, consequently leading to a decline in the presence of M1-type macrophages. Furthermore, the Pd@CeO2 nanozyme showed excellent potential in promoting the shift of macrophages toward the M2 phenotype. Additionally, the factors secreted from the cell supernatant of Pd@CeO2-treated macrophages treated with Pd@CeO2 demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in the chondrocytes located within inflamed synovial joints. These findings offer valuable insights into the advancement of effective enzyme-mimetic therapies for the treatment of OA.
The risk assessment of Engineered Nanomaterials takes place under continuous conditions of data scarcity, mainly induced by the fast-paced development of new materials and the absence of sufficient toxicological and exposure data. Control banding-based risk assessment tools for activities involved with nanomaterials manage uncertainties by combining qualitative hazard banding with exposure estimation and by implementing precautionary principles that account for data gaps and variability. These tools categorize nanomaterials into risk bands based on available physicochemical and toxicological data, while acknowledging that uncertainties stem from incomplete safety data, limited standardized toxicological parameters, and variability in process conditions. However, the reliability and consistency of these tools are challenged by uncertainties arising from data gaps, user variability, and methodological limitations, necessitating robust strategies for uncertainty management within CB methodologies. So, advanced approaches have been proposed to incorporate Adaptive Testing Strategies, Bayesian Networks, Monte Carlo simulations and fuzzy inference systems that quantify the uncertainty in input parameters and improve decision-making. This integrated approach allows CB tools to provide pragmatic risk prioritization and guidance for exposure control measures even in the face of significant uncertainties.
Evidence shows that nanomaterial (NM)-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine production is regulated via redox-sensitive transcription factors (TFs). However, there is limited information regarding the intracellular signaling pathways that regulate NM-mediated activation of TFs. Gaining an understanding of the intracellular signaling pathways that are activated by NMs is key in developing our understanding of how NMs activate inflammatory responses. Traditionally used methods (e.g. immunostaining and western blotting) for assessing TF activation following NM exposure are often subjective and not amenable to high throughput screening. This paper proposes the application of the under-utilized method of selective small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) to rapidly probe the signaling pathways underpinning NM-induced inflammatory responses in vitro. The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways were targeted for study as there is evidence that they are involved in NM-induced inflammation. In our study we demonstrate that silver (Ag), copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) NMs stimulate pro-inflammatory cytokine production by Calu-3 (epithelial) and J774A.1 (macrophage) cells in vitro. Inhibition of Inhibitor of NF-κB Kinase (IKK) reduced the pro-inflammatory response induced by Ag and ZnO NMs but had no significant effect on CuO NM-induced cytokine production. This data indicates that whilst Ag, ZnO and CuO NMs can all stimulate cytokine production by pulmonary cells in vitro they activate inflammatory responses via different mechanisms. We suggest that the wider adoption of SMIs can be used to provide a greater understanding of the mechanisms underlying NM toxicity to help identify what approaches can be used to screen NM toxicity.
Liposomal irinotecan(Nal-IRI) plays a crucial role as a nanomedicine in cancer treatment. Although it has clinically beneficial properties, Nal-IRI is accompanied by multiple adverse events (AEs) that require close observation. This pharmacovigilance study aimed to characterize and compare the safety profiles of liposomal irinotecan (Nal-IRI) and conventional irinotecan (IRI) using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), focusing on identifying hidden risks of Nal-IRI in AEs. The data were extracted from the FAERS database (from Q1 2004 to Q3 2024). AE signals of Nal-IRI and IRI were mined by calculating reporting odds ratios (ROR), proportional reporting ratios (PRR), information component (IC) and empirical bayesian geometric mean (EBGM). A total of 90 Nal-IRI-positive PTs and 437 IRI-positive PTs were identified. Both exhibited stronger signals in gastrointestinal disorders and blood and lymphatic system disorders, and Nal-IRI also demonstrated stronger signals in the hepatobiliary disorders. We identified new specific AEs of Nal-IRI, cholangitis (ROR = 56.45), enterocolitis (ROR = 41.89), hematotoxicity (ROR = 18.47) and 302 off-label use reports. Meanwhile, Nal-IRI exhibited delayed toxicity, with a prolonged median AE onset time (35 days vs. 27 days for IRI) and fewer early reactions (≤7 days: 13.88% vs. 20.51% for IRI). Furthermore, Nal-IRI exhibited stronger signals in gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. vomiting, abdominal pain) in Asian populations, while European/American populations had stronger signals in hematological/hepatic adverse reactions (e.g. neutropenia, cholangitis). Nal-IRI demonstrates distinct safety challenges, including delayed toxicity, hepatobiliary risks, and population-specific vulnerabilities. These findings have revealed the unique risks associated with nanomedicine, underscoring the necessity extending pharmacovigilance.
Nanoplatics (NPs), particularly polystyrene (PS)-NPs, can traverse the placental barrier upon maternal exposure, leading to bioaccumulation in both dam and offspring organs, and inducing widespread transplacental toxicity. The distribution and toxicity of NPs are influenced by a variety of factors, including NP properties (type, size, and charge), exposure parameters (dose, route, and timing), and biological variables (model and co-exposures). Due to their minute size, NPs pose significant threats to multiple systems in animal models. In rodent studies, reproductive and endocrine toxicity primarily manifests as placental dysfunction, impaired embryo implantation, increased miscarriage rates, and gonadal toxicity in offspring, mechanisms for which are suggested to involve oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and dysregulated calcium homeostasis. Reported neurotoxicity, characterized by aberrant cortical architecture, hippocampal dysfunction, and learning and memory deficits, is mediated by mechanisms such as oxidative stress and ferroptosis, neurotransmitter disruption, gut-brain axis dysregulation, and pathological protein aggregation. In the cardiovascular system, studies suggest PS-NPs induce offspring cardiac fibrosis, apoptosis, and functional impairments, demonstrating marked sex-specific dimorphism potentially driven by ferroptosis. And PS-NPs have been shown to disrupt glycolipid metabolism in animal models, leading to offspring metabolic disorders. Furthermore, evidence from non-mammalian models, notably Caenorhabditis elegans, reveals transgenerational toxicity. Critically, the consequences of early-life NP exposure are long-lasting, potentially elevating susceptibility to various diseases in adulthood. This review comprehensively summarizes the toxicological profiles of NPs during the critical windows of gestation and lactation, underscoring the need for more robust research and a systematic approach to risk assessment.
Technical advances have improved scientists' ability to think critically and turn theoretical ideas into actual research. Nanotechnology's potential allows it to spread in modern agriculture. Agricultural nanotechnology may improve food supply, security, sustainability and climate change. Nanoparticles' effects on the soil-plant system reveal their soil ecological hazards. Nano-enzymes promote the balance of ROS by acting as strong antioxidants, thereby enhancing the stress tolerance of plants. They activate antioxidant enzymes like SOD, CAT, and POD, stabilize cellular membranes, and protect photosynthetic machinery. Nanomaterials influence soil pollutants' fate, mobility and toxicity in remediation methods. Nanomaterials' performance and fate rely on soil interactions. Despite many potential benefits, its field applications are restricted. Current research lacks practical ways to assess risk and nanoparticle toxicity to plants, soil and soil microbiomes after release. Environmental safety and risk evaluation need understanding of the manufactured nanoparticle-soil interactions. Nanotechnologies in ecosystems raise health risks. Given the circumstances, nanoparticles in soil must be evaluated and security measures be taken.
The increasing release of nanomaterials into aquatic environments has raised global concern regarding their ecological impacts, particularly under ongoing climate change. Among these materials, metallic nanoparticles are of special interest due to their widespread use and environmental persistence. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are extensively applied in industrial and medical products and are frequently detected in aquatic systems, where their toxicity may be strongly influenced by abiotic factors such as temperature. In ecotoxicological studies, silver nitrate (AgNO3) is commonly used as a positive control to represent dissolved ionic silver and to enable comparison with nanoparticulate forms. However, the combined effects of AgNP exposure and thermal variation on crustacean physiology remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that temperature markedly enhances the toxicity and physiological stress induced by AgNPs in the shrimp Palaemon pandaliformis, using AgNO3 exclusively as an ionic silver control. Acute 96-hour toxicity assays showed consistently lower LC50 values for AgNO3 than for AgNPs across all temperatures, confirming its higher intrinsic toxicity, while both silver forms exhibited pronounced toxicity amplification at elevated temperature (25 °C). Sublethal responses revealed significantly increased oxygen consumption under combined thermal and silver stress, indicating elevated metabolic demand, whereas ammonia excretion declined with increasing concentration and temperature, suggesting impairment of branchial excretory function. Overall, our findings demonstrate that warming not only intensifies mortality but also exacerbates metabolic and excretory dysfunction associated with metallic nanoparticle exposure, highlighting the critical role of temperature in nanotoxicological risk assessment and supporting P. pandaliformis as a sensitive bioindicator under climate change scenarios.
Water pollution, caused by human activities, is a major environmental and health concern. Among heavy metal pollutants, mercury (Hg) is recognized as one of the most persistent and bioaccumulative, while being also highly toxic for human health. Heavy metal removal from water presents significant challenges, and nanotechnology provides a promising solution through cost-effective, efficient, and reusable adsorption or immobilization. Silver nanoparticles functionalized with citrate and L-cysteine (AgNPcitLcys) have been specifically designed to remove Hg ions from water along with a negligible ecotoxicological impact to aquatic life. The present study aims to assess the efficacy of Hg removal from water by AgNPcitLcys through and ecotoxicity approach using the freshwater microalga Raphidocelis subcapitata and the marine water microalga Dunaliella tertiolecta. AgNPcitLcys showed low ecotoxicity to both microalgae, even though at high concentrations (10 mg/L) D. tertiolecta suffered a 40% inhibition of growth. Hg removal was highly efficient in marine water medium (99.26%) compared to freshwater (63.07%), regardless of the concentration of Hg. Despite removal in both media, Hg toxicity was successfully reduced by AgNPcitLcys only for D. tertiolecta. AgNPcitLcys showed to successfully work in a complex aquatic medium such as seawater, confirming their potentiality to be applied in real scenarios of water pollution by Hg.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is available on the market in a wide range of combinations of physico-chemical properties, including variations in crystallinity, size, purity, and surface coating. Each form is associated with specific applications, leading to distinct exposure route(s). Concerns regarding the reproductive and developmental toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) have been raised. Therefore, a review of both regulatory data and of the scientific literature was conducted to identify potential discrepancies. This review highlighted that reported effects are primarily related to anatase form via the oral route, largely due to the lack of studies on other nanoforms. By comparing available data with regulatory requirements and, in light of the identified concern, it becomes evident that additional data are needed to ensure the safe use of TiO2 and emphasizes the need for further research. Ultimately, the robustness of the existing evidence should be reevaluated to determine whether classification and labeling under the European CLP Regulation is warranted.
Pulmonary exposure to certain multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) triggers significant inflammation that is regulated temporally by powerful mediators of inflammation and resolution. Among these mediators, inflammatory lipid mediators (ILMs) and specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) have garnered increasing attention. In this study, lipidomics analysis revealed that fibrogenic MWCNTs stimulate the production of signature ILMs and SPMs in mouse lungs, marking a phenotypic shift from acute inflammation to resolution. Mice exposed to 40 μg MWCNTs via oropharyngeal aspiration exhibited dynamic, polarized pulmonary inflammation. By day 7 post-exposure, lung tissue showed elevated M2 macrophage markers and cytokines, with lesions characterized by moderate neutrophil infiltration and a marked increase in macrophages within alveolar sacs and interstitial spaces. These macrophages contained engulfed nanoparticles and formed clusters of varying sizes. In vitro, MWCNTs promoted nanoparticle phagocytosis and cytoplasmic phospholipid accumulation. Lipidomics profiling of lung bioactive lipids, performed using ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, showed significant increases in ILMs and SPMs. These included prostaglandin (PG) E2, PGD2, thromboxane B2, leukotriene B4, and lipoxin B4 from the arachidonic acid pathway; resolvin (Rv) D5, protectin DX, maresin 1, 17-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (HDHA), and 14S-HDHA from the docosahexaenoic acid pathway; and RvE2, 15-hydroxyeicosapentaenoic acid (HEPE), and 18-HEPE from the eicosapentaenoic acid pathway. These findings suggest that MWCNTs trigger a distinct lipid mediator signature at the junction of inflammation-resolution transition to promote the programmatic switch from acute inflammation to resolution, supporting continued particle clearance, inflammation resolution, and return to homeostasis in response to nanoparticle exposure.
Nanoplastics (NPs), particles smaller than 1 μm, are considered a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems due to their ability to penetrate tissues, bioaccumulate, and disrupt physiological functions. However, quantitative data on their chronic and environmentally relevant effects remain limited. This review combines findings from 128 studies (2014-2025) on the effects of nanoparticles in five representative freshwater and marine species: Scenedesmus obliquus (microalgae), Crassostrea gigas (bivalve), Apostichopus japonicus (echinoderm), Litopenaeus vannamei (crustacean), and Danio rerio (fish). Our analysis shows that exposure to NPs at low concentrations of 0.1-100 μg/mL can cause oxidative stress, membrane damage, developmental disorders, reproductive changes, and immune and nervous system dysfunction. Factors affecting the toxicity of NPs include particle size, concentration, type, and aging status, as well as duration of exposure, organism sensitivity, environmental conditions, and the presence of co-contaminants. Despite the increasing recognition of the effects of nanoplastics, quantitative data on their chronic and long-term effects, particularly at environmentally relevant exposure levels, remain scarce. This review highlights the urgent need for future research focusing on the mechanisms and processes of nanoparticle toxicity at ecologically realistic concentrations, as well as on the long-term ecological and physiological consequences for aquatic organisms.
Silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) are widely utilized in industrial and biomedical applications owing to their unique physicochemical properties; however, their potential biological effects require comprehensive evaluation. In this study, the model organism Drosophila melanogaster was employed to investigate the impacts of dietary exposure to SiO2 NPs of different sizes and concentrations on developmental and reproductive outcomes. The assessed parameters included egg-laying rate, pupation time, adult emergence time, pupation rate, adult emergence rate, larval weight, and sex ratio. The results revealed that at concentrations of 0.2% or lower, neither nanoparticle size produced significant effects on development or reproductive capacity. In contrast, exposure to 2% SiO2 NPs (both 15 nm and 30 nm) led to reduced body weight in third instar larvae. Notably, 30 nm SiO2 NPs exposure significantly decreased pupation and adult emergence rates and was associated with delayed pupation and emergence times. Although total egg production remained unchanged, flies exposed to 30 nm SiO2 NPs exhibited an earlier oviposition peak. These findings suggest that exposure to SiO2 NPs at the national standard concentration of 0.2% does not cause notable developmental effects in Drosophila, whereas a tenfold increase in concentration may induce developmental delays. Considering that the 0.2% standard is based on human exposure and accounting for interspecies extrapolation, the 2% concentration may still represent a relevant dose range. Overall, these results indicate that excessive intake of SiO2 NPs could pose toxicological risks and provide a theoretical foundation for further studies on the mechanisms underlying SiO2 NPs-induced toxicity.
