Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles: a Risk for Human Health?

Title:Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles: a Risk for Human Health?

Volume: 16 Issue: 9

Author(s): Fedora Grande and Paola Tucci

Affiliation:

Keywords: Apoptosis, cancer, cosmetics, food additives, inflammation, metabolism, oxidative stress.

Abstract: Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is a natural oxide of the element titanium with low toxicity, and negligible biological effects. The classification as bio-inert material has given the possibility to normal-sized (>100 nm) titanium dioxide particles (TiO₂-NPs) to be extensively used in food products and as ingredients in a wide range of pharmaceutical products and cosmetics, such as sunscreens and toothpastes. Therefore, human exposure may occur through ingestion and dermal penetration, or through inhalation route, during both the manufacturing process and use. In spite of the extensively use of TiO₂-NPs, the biological effects and the cellular response mechanisms are still not completely elucidated and thus a deep understanding of the toxicological profile of this compound is required. The main mechanism underlining the toxicity potentially triggered by TiO₂-NPs seems to involve the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, resulting in oxidative stress, inflammation, genotoxicity, metabolic change and potentially carcinogenesis. The extent and type of cell damage strongly depend on chemical and physical characteristics of TiO₂-NPs, including size, crystal structure and photo-activation. In this mini-review, we would like to discuss the latest findings on the adverse effects and on potential human health risks induced by TiO₂-NPs exposure.

Cite this article as:

Grande Fedora and Tucci Paola, Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles: a Risk for Human Health?, Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry 2016; 16 (9) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1389557516666160321114341