Biomedical application and hidden toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2019-01
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Materials Today Chemistry
Abstract
Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) represent a novel type of metal oxide nanoparticles enabling a new horizon for biomedical applications spanning from diagnosis to treatment. ZnO NPs are extensively used in commercial products such as sunscreens and daily-care products. Apart from that, ZnO NPs are used in food packaging and ointments and as an antimicrobial and antifungal agent. They are extensively used for many biomedical applications noticeably in pharmaceutics and theranostics. Its exceptional optical, electrical, and physiochemical properties, notably its incredible surface chemistry, make ZnO NPs a reliable option for bioimaging, biosensors, antimicrobial action, and drug and gene delivery. The present review covers findings and developments in ZnO NPs research in relation to its application and toxicity mechanism. A special emphasis has been given to the neurotoxic potential of the ZnO NPs and glial cell toxicity. Various factors contributing to the toxic potential of ZnO NPs and cell signaling pathways concerning its toxicity are also discussed. Available data point toward the risk of uncontrollable use of zinc nanoformulation. With increasing use, ZnO NPs pose a severe threat both to the ecosystem and human beings. In a nutshell, the review outlines the current state of the art of ZnO NPs.
Description
Keywords
ZnO nanoparticleBiomedical applicationToxicity mechanismPathwaysROS generationToxicity factors
Citation
Sruthi S, Ashtami J, Mohanan PV. Biomedical application and hidden toxicity of zinc oxide nanoparticles. Materials Today Chemistry. 2018:10:175-186