The Effects of Nanomaterials as Endocrine Disruptors

Abstract

In recent years, nanoparticles have been increasingly used in several industrial, consumer and medical applications because of their unique physico-chemical properties. However, in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that these properties are also closely associated with detrimental health effects. There is a serious lack of information on the potential nanoparticle hazard to human health, particularly on their possible toxic effects on the endocrine system. This topic is of primary importance since the disruption of endocrine functions is associated with severe adverse effects on human health. Consequently, in order to gather information on the hazardous effects of nanoparticles on endocrine organs, we reviewed the data available in the literature regarding the endocrine effects of in vitro and in vivo exposure to different types of nanoparticles. Our aim was to understand the potential endocrine disrupting risks posed by nanoparticles, to assess their underlying mechanisms of action and identify areas in which further investigation is needed in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the role of nanoparticles as endocrine disruptors. Current data support the notion that different types of nanoparticles are capable of altering the normal and physiological activity of the endocrine system. However, a critical evaluation of these findings suggests the need to interpret these results with caution since information on potential endocrine interactions and the toxicity of nanoparticles is quite limited.

Review of Antibacterial Activity of Titanium-based Implants Surfaces Fabricated by Micro-arc Oxidation

“…Ag NPs are the most popular inorganic antimicrobial NPs [68] and can be incorporated into implant by directly dispersion of solid Ag NPs in the electrolyte during MAO. The antibacterial mechanisms as reported are Ag NPs can directly interact with the microbial cells, leading to the increase of membrane permeability [69], the degradation of lipopolysaccharide molecules with the formation of pits and gaps in the bacterial membrane and the damage of bacterial outer membrane [70,71]. Ag NPs can also penetrate the bacterial cell envelope and cause DNA damage and protein oxidation by producing secondary products such as reactive oxygen species [72].…”

Prenatal development toxicity study of zinc oxide nanoparticles in rats

“…In contrast, other nanomaterials may prevent endocrine dysfunction via various mechanisms, including antioxidant effects. 20 Also, a lot of evidence shows that fetuses are affected more than adults by a variety of environmental toxins because of physiological immaturity. Yamashita et al 21 reported that nanosilica induced fetal resorption and restricted fetal growth, and surface modification of nanosilica with carboxyl or amine groups prevented resorption and fetal growth restriction in the study of nanosilica (70 nm).…”

“…20,21 Some studies of reproductive function suggest that exposure to some nanomaterials may disrupt endocrine functions such as regulation of serum sex-hormone levels. In contrast, other nanomaterials may prevent endocrine dysfunction via various mechanisms, including antioxidant effects.…”

Effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on dams and embryo–fetal development in rats

“…18,19 Some studies of reproductive function suggest that exposure to some nanomaterials may disrupt endocrine functions, such as the regulation of serum sex hormone levels. In contrast, other nanomaterials may prevent endocrine dysfunction via various mechanisms, including antioxidant effects.…”