Hepatotoxicity induced by metallic nanoparticles at the cellular level: A review

Abstract

Nanoparticles are defined as structures of size ranges from 1-100 nm in diameter in at least one direction. Metallic nanoparticles are considered the most potent agents in the modern world because they are used in every field of life, including the biotechnology, medical, textile, and food industries. Owing to their increased application, humans are constantly exposed to these nanoparticles. Their physiochemical characteristics, as their large surface to volume ratio might enhance their toxicity, increased surface area of NPs exhibit increased biological activity i.e reactive oxygen species generation when compared to large particles of the same mass. Consequently, their biosafety is a matter of major concern. The liver is the primary organ for detoxification and the major organ exposed to nanoparticles. After penetrating the body, nanoparticles enter the bloodstream and are internalized by hepatocytes. After penetration, they cause genotoxicity, oxidative stress and histopathology in hepatic tissues.