Effect of polymer functionalized fullerene soot on C6 glial cells

Abstract

Fullerene is crafting its dominance in various fields of science. Advanced exploration on the applicability of fullerene and the enhanced chances of exposure has prompted valuation of its biocompatibility. The antioxidant and radical scavenging characteristic of fullerene raises assurance for various biomedical applications. Nevertheless, the hydrophobicity of fullerene lowers its charm in healthcare applications where stable water dispersity is fundamental. In this study, one of the highly exposed forms of fullerenes; fullerene soot was subjected to in vitro toxicity evaluation. For nullify hydrophobic consistency, soot nanoparticles were surface functionalized with dextran polymer. Even though various tissue-specific toxicity evaluations of fullerene are been reported, the idea about its effect on the neuronal tissue still remains vague. In the context, the well-characterized dextran-coated fullerene soot (Dex-FS) nanoparticles were exposed to C6 glial cells to understand the cellular response of Dex-FS. Glial cells are present in plenty in the central nervous system (CNS) and provide support and insulation to neurons. Hence, glial cells turn out to be an ideal choice for in vitro CNS system. Dex-FS showed dose-dependent toxicity. The integrity of cytoskeleton was found to be compromised. Dex-FS was found to trigger ROS production in a dose and time dependent manner. The lysosomal activity and mitochondrial membrane potential during post Dex-FS treatment was evaluated using acridine orange and rhodamine-phalloidin staining. The molecular level toxicity was evaluated by DNA laddering and DAPI staining. The amount of live and dead cells after treating C6 glial cells with Dex-FS was estimated by Calcein AM/ PI flow cytometry. The neurotoxic impact of fullerene soot nanoparticles explored in the present study thus presents a debatable topic regarding vehicle exhaust which contains higher amounts of fullerene soot as active ingredient.