Xiaoyong Deng et al 2009 Nanotechnology 20 115101 doi:10.1088/0957-4484/20/11/115101
Xiaoyong Deng1, Qixia Luan1, Wenting Chen2, Yanli Wang2, Minghong Wu1,2,3, Haijiao Zhang1 and Zheng Jiao1
Show affiliationsGiven the intensive application of nanoscale zinc oxide (ZnO) materials in our life, growing concerns have arisen about its unintentional health and environmental impacts. In this study, the neurotoxicity of different sized ZnO nanoparticles in mouse neural stem cells (NSCs) was investigated. A cell viability assay indicated that ZnO nanoparticles manifested dose-dependent, but no size-dependent toxic effects on NSCs. Apoptotic cells were observed and analyzed by confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy examination, and flow cytometry. All the results support the viewpoint that the ZnO nanoparticle toxicity comes from the dissolved Zn2+ in the culture medium or inside cells. Our results highlight the need for caution during the use and disposal of ZnO manufactured nanomaterials to prevent the unintended environmental and health impacts.
Issue 11 (18 March 2009)
Received 18 September 2008, in final form 8 December 2008
Published 24 February 2009
Xiaoyong Deng et al 2009 Nanotechnology 20 115101