Validation of Electrical Impedance Technique in Real-Time Using the xCELLigence as an Interference-Free Method for Assessing Cytotoxicity of Silver and Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles

Abstract

This study demonstrated the utility of real-time electrical impedance, utilizing the xCELLigence system to assess the cytotoxic effects of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles (HANPs) on A549 cells. Method validation confirmed the accuracy and reliability of cell index (CI) measurements. The NPs were thoroughly characterized to confirm their elemental composition, size, and morphology through energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Cytotoxicity assays revealed a concentration-dependent response. Exposure to AgNPs resulted in a significant change in CI, with a pronounced increase followed by a sharp decrease in the first few hours after treatment at the highest concentration of 50 μg mL–1. This pattern suggested an initial cell response to AgNPs exposure, possibly indicating mechanisms such as apoptosis or necrosis, followed by a decrease in cell adhesion. Conversely, HANPs demonstrated a tendency to restore CI at higher concentrations (1-100 μg mL–1) before 48 h, suggesting a potential recovery in cell proliferation capacity. This underscores the diverse cell responses to NPs, emphasizing the sensitivity of the method in detecting subtle cytotoxic effects. These findings highlight the efficacy of real-time electrical impedance in dynamic nanoparticle cytotoxicity assessments, surpassing traditional assays. Adapting to high-throughput screening enhances nanomaterial safety evaluations.