Nano-biointeractions of PEGylated and bare reduced graphene oxide on lung alveolar epithelial cells: A comparative in vitro study
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Date
2016-01
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Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces
Abstract
Graphene and its derivatives have garnered significant scientific interest and have potential use in
nano-electronics as well as biomedicine. However the undesirable biological consequence, especially
upon inhalation of the particle, requires further investigations. This study aimed to elucidate the nanobiointeractions
of PEGylated reduced graphene oxide (PrGO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with that
of lung alveolar epithelial cells (A549). Both nanomaterials showed dose dependent decrease in cell viability
and alteration of cell morphology after 24 h. Upon intracellular uptake of PrGO, it elicited oxidative
stress mediated apoptosis in the cells by inducing ROS, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP)
and inflammatory response by NF-B activation. Conversely, rGO was found to scavenge ROS efficiently
except at high dose after 24 h. It was found that ROS at high dose of rGO prompted loss of MMP. rGO was
found to adhere to the cell membrane, where itis assumed to bind to cell surface Toll like receptors (TLRs)
thereby activating NF-B mediated inflammatory response. All these events culminated in an increase
in apoptosis of A549 cells after 24 h of rGO exposure. It was also noticed that both the nanomaterials
did not initiate lysosomal pathway but instead activated mitochondria mediated apoptosis. This study
highlights the possible adverse toxic effect of PrGO and rGO upon inhalation and persistence of these
particles in the lungs. Further research is required to comprehend the biological response of PrGO and
rGO so as to advance its biomedical application and safety.
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Keywords
PEGylated reduced graphene oxide Reduced graphene oxide A549 cell Oxidative stress NF-B Apoptosis
Citation
Reshma S C, Syama S, Mohanan PV. Nano-biointeractions of PEGylated and bare reduced graphene oxide on lung alveolar epithelial cells: A comparative in vitro study. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces. 2015;140:104-116.