Background
The application of TiO(2) nanoparticles promises to revolutionize cardiac imaging and targeted medical treatment.
Conclusion
Despite the functional advantages of Pt modification, which results in increased uptake at a lower concentration, the corresponding increase in cardiotoxic effect indicates that a thoughtful, cautious approach to cardiac nanotechnologies is required.
Methods
A novel type of platinum-modified TiO(2) (Pt-TiO(2)) nanoparticle was synthesized and characterized. Commercially available P25 TiO(2) nanoparticles were used for comparison. Cellular toxicity and its mechanisms were evaluated by analyzing nanoparticle uptake, oxidative stress and mitochondrial membrane potential in rat cardiac (H9c2) cells.
Results
There was greater cellular uptake of Pt-TiO(2). Furthermore, Pt-TiO(2) caused a greater increase in oxidative stress and greater decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. These data suggest that Pt modification of TiO(2) nanoparticles rendered them more cytotoxic than their commercial counterparts at lower, more physiologically relevant concentrations.