Copper (II) Oxide Nanoparticles Induced Nephrotoxicity In Vitro Conditions

Abstract

Copper (II) oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) have been used in industry, cosmetics, and medicine. Gradually increased human exposure to CuO-NPs can cause undesirable effects in humans and the ecosystem. Although a few studies indicate that CuO-NPs can damage organs/systems, we still lack data on the toxicological effects of CuO-NPs in kidneys. In the present study, the nephrotoxic potential of CuO-NPs was investigated in in vitro conditions. The following assays were used: transmission electron microscopy and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry for particle characterization and determination of cellular uptake; MTT and neutral red uptake assays for cytotoxicity; comet assay for genotoxicity; enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) determination of malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), protein carbonyl (PC), and glutathione (GSH) levels for oxidative damage; and Annexin V-FITC apoptosis detection assay with propidium iodide (PI) for apoptosis. Our results show that CuO-NPs (34.9 nm) caused significant cytotoxicity (IC50: 11.6–16.4 μg/mL), genotoxicity (1.9- to 8.4-fold), and oxidative and apoptotic effects in the range of 2.5–80 μg/mL in kidney cells. In conclusion, CuO-NPs are hypothesized to negatively affect human health and caused nephrotoxicity. However, further studies should be better to elucidate their toxic mechanism.