PVP-stabilized tungsten oxide nanoparticles (WO3) nanoparticles cause hemolysis of human erythrocytes in a dose-dependent manner

Abstract

Tungsten oxide nanoparticles (WO3 NPs) are increasingly being considered as a promising material for biomedical applications. However, toxicological information on their effect on red blood cells (RBCs) remains very scarce. In this study, we examined the toxicity of PVP-stabilized tungsten oxide nanoparticles against human RBCs. Optical microscopy and spectrophotometry data showed that WO3 NPs induce hemolytic activity. This effect is probably attributed to the direct interaction of the nanoparticles with the RBCs, resulting in the oxidative stress, membrane injury, and subsequent hemolysis.