Mohd Javed Akhtar

Publications

• 3.36

  Impact points

  Apoptosis induction by silica nanoparticles mediated through reactive oxygen species in human liver cell line HepG2.

  Javed Ahmad, Maqusood Ahamed, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Salman A Alrokayan, Maqsood A Siddiqui, Javed Musarrat, Abdulaziz A Al-Khedhairy

  Toxicology and applied pharmacology. 03/2012; 259(2):160-8.

  Silica nanoparticles are increasingly utilized in various applications including agriculture and medicine. In vivo studies have shown that liver is one of the primary target organ of silica nanoparticles. However, possible mechanisms of hepatotoxicity caused by silica nanoparticles still remain uncl... [more] Silica nanoparticles are increasingly utilized in various applications including agriculture and medicine. In vivo studies have shown that liver is one of the primary target organ of silica nanoparticles. However, possible mechanisms of hepatotoxicity caused by silica nanoparticles still remain unclear. In this study, we explored the reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated apoptosis induced by well-characterized 14nm silica nanoparticles in human liver cell line HepG2. Silica nanoparticles (25-200μg/ml) induced a dose-dependent cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. Silica nanoparticles were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by induction of ROS and lipid peroxidation and depletion of glutathione (GSH). Quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting results showed that both the mRNA and protein expressions of cell cycle checkpoint gene p53 and apoptotic genes (bax and caspase-3) were up-regulated while the anti-apoptotic gene bcl-2 was down-regulated in silica nanoparticles treated cells. Moreover, co-treatment of ROS scavenger vitamin C significantly attenuated the modulation of apoptotic markers along with the preservation of cell viability caused by silica nanoparticles. Our data demonstrated that silica nanoparticles induced apoptosis in human liver cells, which is ROS mediated and regulated through p53, bax/bcl-2 and caspase pathways. This study suggests that toxicity mechanisms of silica nanoparticles should be further investigated at in vivo level.

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• 1.83

  Impact points

  Cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction by nanoscale talc particles from two different geographical regions in human lung epithelial cells.

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqusood Ahamed, M A Majeed Khan, Salman A Alrokayan, Iqbal Ahmad, Sudhir Kumar

  Environmental toxicology. 02/2012;

  We have characterized the physicochemical properties of nanotalc particles from two different geographical regions and examined their toxicity mechanisms in human lung epithelial (A549) cells. Indigenous nanotalc (IN) of Indian origin and commercial nanotalc (CN) of American origin were used in this... [more] We have characterized the physicochemical properties of nanotalc particles from two different geographical regions and examined their toxicity mechanisms in human lung epithelial (A549) cells. Indigenous nanotalc (IN) of Indian origin and commercial nanotalc (CN) of American origin were used in this study. Physicochemical properties of nanotalc particles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Results showed that both IN and CN particles significantly induce cytotoxicity and alteration in cell cycle phases. Both IN and CN particles were found to induce oxidative stress indicated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, and depletion of antioxidant levels. DNA fragmentation and caspase-3 enzyme activation due to IN and CN particles exposure were also observed. We further showed that after iron chelation, IN and CN particles produce significantly less cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity to A549 cells as compared with nonchelated particles. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that redox active iron plays significant role in the toxicity of IN and CN particles, which may be mediated through ROS generation and oxidative stress. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.

• Protective effect of sulphoraphane against oxidative stress mediated toxicity induced by CuO nanoparticles in mouse embryonic fibroblasts BALB 3T3.

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqusood Ahamed, Mohd Fareed, Salman A Alrokayan, Sudhir Kumar

  The Journal of toxicological sciences. 02/2012; 37(1):139-48.

  Despite the great interest in nanoparticles (NPs) safety, no comprehensive test paradigm has been developed. Oxidative stress has been implicated as an explanation behind the toxicity of NPs. It is reported that sulphoraphane (SFN) present in cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli has ... [more] Despite the great interest in nanoparticles (NPs) safety, no comprehensive test paradigm has been developed. Oxidative stress has been implicated as an explanation behind the toxicity of NPs. It is reported that sulphoraphane (SFN) present in cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli has potential to protect cells from oxidative damage and inflammation. However, protective role of SFN in nanotoxicity is not explored. We investigated the protective effect of SFN against the toxic response of copper oxide (CuO) NPs in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (BALB 3T3). Results showed that CuO NPs induced dose-dependent (5-15 µg/ml) cytotoxicity in BALB 3T3 cells demonstrated by MTT and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. CuO NPs were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) and depletion of glutathione and glutathione reductase. Co-treatment of BALB 3T3 cells with SFN (6 µM) significantly attenuated the cytotoxicity, ROS generation and oxidative stress caused by CuO NPs. Moreover, we found that co-treatment of another antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) (2 mM) also significantly attenuated glutathione depletion caused by CuO NPs but protection from the loss of cell viability due to CuO NPs exposure was not significant. We believe this is the first report showing that SFN significantly protected the BALB 3T3 cells from CuO NPs toxicity, which is mediated through generation of oxidants and depletion of antioxidants. Consequently, protective mechanism of SFN against CuO NPs toxicity was different from NAC that should be further investigated.
• 1.64

  Impact points

  Zinc oxide nanoparticles selectively induce apoptosis in human cancer cells through reactive oxygen species.

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqusood Ahamed, Sudhir Kumar, Ma Majeed Khan, Javed Ahmad, Salman A Alrokayan

  International journal of nanomedicine. 01/2012; 7:845-57.

  Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have received much attention for their implications in cancer therapy. It has been reported that ZnO NPs induce selective killing of cancer cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms behind the anticancer response of ZnO NPs remain unclear. We investigated... [more] Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have received much attention for their implications in cancer therapy. It has been reported that ZnO NPs induce selective killing of cancer cells. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms behind the anticancer response of ZnO NPs remain unclear. We investigated the cytotoxicity of ZnO NPs against three types of cancer cells (human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2, human lung adenocarcinoma A549, and human bronchial epithelial BEAS-2B) and two primary rat cells (astrocytes and hepatocytes). Results showed that ZnO NPs exert distinct effects on mammalian cell viability via killing of all three types of cancer cells while posing no impact on normal rat astrocytes and hepatocytes. The toxicity mechanisms of ZnO NPs were further investigated using human liver cancer HepG2 cells. Both the mRNA and protein levels of tumor suppressor gene p53 and apoptotic gene bax were upregulated while the antiapoptotic gene bcl-2 was downregulated in ZnO NP-treated HepG2 cells. ZnO NPs were also found to induce activity of caspase-3 enzyme, DNA fragmentation, reactive oxygen species generation, and oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. Overall, our data demonstrated that ZnO NPs selectively induce apoptosis in cancer cells, which is likely to be mediated by reactive oxygen species via p53 pathway, through which most of the anticancer drugs trigger apoptosis. This study provides preliminary guidance for the development of liver cancer therapy using ZnO NPs.

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• 5.44

  Impact points

  ZnO nanorod-induced apoptosis in human alveolar adenocarcinoma cells via p53, survivin and bax/bcl-2 pathways: role of oxidative stress.

  Maqusood Ahamed, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Mohan Raja, Iqbal Ahmad, Mohammad Kaleem Javed Siddiqui, Mohamad S AlSalhi, Salman A Alrokayan

  Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine. 05/2011; 7(6):904-13.

  Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly recognized for their utility in biological applications, including biosensor and medicine. However, little is known about the toxicity mechanisms of ZnO nanorods in human cells. This study was designed to investigate the possible mechanisms of ap... [more] Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) are increasingly recognized for their utility in biological applications, including biosensor and medicine. However, little is known about the toxicity mechanisms of ZnO nanorods in human cells. This study was designed to investigate the possible mechanisms of apoptosis induced by ZnO nanorods in human alveolar adenocarcinoma (A549) cells. ZnO nanorod was found to induce cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, oxidative stress and activities of caspase-3 & caspase-9 in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Western blot results showed that ZnO nanorods induced the expression of heat shock protein 70, a first-tier marker of cell damage and a cell-cycle checkpoint protein p53. Moreover, pro-apoptotic protein bax was upregulated and the antiapoptotic proteins, survivin and bcl-2, were downregulated in ZnO nanorod exposed cells. In conclusion, our data demonstrates that ZnO nanorod induced apoptosis in A549 cells through ROS and oxidative stress via p53, survivin, bax/bcl-2 and caspase pathways. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR: This study describes the mechanisms of apoptosis induced by ZnO nanorods in human alveolar adenocarcinoma cells.

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• 3.24

  Impact points

  Oxidative stress mediated apoptosis induced by nickel ferrite nanoparticles in cultured A549 cells.

  Maqusood Ahamed, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqsood A Siddiqui, Javed Ahmad, Javed Musarrat, Abdulaziz A Al-Khedhairy, Mohamad S AlSalhi, Salman A Alrokayan

  Toxicology. 03/2011; 283(2-3):101-8.

  Due to the interesting magnetic and electrical properties with good chemical and thermal stabilities, nickel ferrite nanoparticles are being utilized in many applications including magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery and hyperthermia. Recent studies have shown that nickel ferrite nanoparticles... [more] Due to the interesting magnetic and electrical properties with good chemical and thermal stabilities, nickel ferrite nanoparticles are being utilized in many applications including magnetic resonance imaging, drug delivery and hyperthermia. Recent studies have shown that nickel ferrite nanoparticles produce cytotoxicity in mammalian cells. However, there is very limited information concerning the toxicity of nickel ferrite nanoparticles at the cellular and molecular level. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and apoptosis induction by well-characterized nickel ferrite nanoparticles (size 26 nm) in human lung epithelial (A549) cells. Nickel ferrite nanoparticles induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity in A549 cells demonstrated by MTT, NRU and LDH assays. Nickel ferrite nanoparticles were also found to induce oxidative stress evidenced by generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and depletion of antioxidant glutathione (GSH). Further, co-treatment with the antioxidant L-ascorbic acid mitigated the ROS generation and GSH depletion due to nickel ferrite nanoparticles suggesting the potential mechanism of oxidative stress. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that following the exposure of A549 cells to nickel ferrite nanoparticles, the level of mRNA expressions of cell cycle checkpoint protein p53 and apoptotic proteins (bax, caspase-3 and caspase-9) were significantly up-regulated, whereas the expression of anti-apoptotic proteins (survivin and bcl-2) were down-regulated. Moreover, activities of caspase-3 and caspase-9 enzymes were also significantly higher in nickel ferrite nanoparticles exposed cells. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report showing that nickel ferrite nanoparticles induced apoptosis in A549 cells through ROS generation and oxidative stress via p53, survivin, bax/bcl-2 and caspase pathways.
• 1.59

  Impact points

  Nano-talc stabilizes TNF-alpha m-RNA in human macrophages.

  Mohd Imran Khan, Amogh A Sahasrabuddhe, Govil Patil, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Mohd Ashquin, Iqbal Ahmad

  Journal of biomedical nanotechnology. 02/2011; 7(1):112-3.

  Particle size reduction of talc from micro- to nanoscale gradually enhanced its cytotoxicity however its inflammatory potential is still not explored. In the current study we observed increased TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 mRNA levels in macrophages exposed to Nano-Talc (NT). Further, NT particles a... [more] Particle size reduction of talc from micro- to nanoscale gradually enhanced its cytotoxicity however its inflammatory potential is still not explored. In the current study we observed increased TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 mRNA levels in macrophages exposed to Nano-Talc (NT). Further, NT particles also showed constituent phosphorylation of both p38 and ERK1/2 pathway however JNK phosphorylation was transient. Pre-treatment of macrophages with p38 and ERK1/2 inhibitors either alone or in combination showed significant reduction in TNF-alpha mRNA stability, clearly suggesting their role in TNF-alpha mRNA stabilization and expression. Our observations clearly demonstrated the inflammatory potential of NT particles which might be at least partial and potential mechanism in talc mediated pathogenecity in the exposed population.
• 1.59

  Impact points

  Nanotoxicity of dolomite mineral of commercial importance in India.

  Govil Patil, Mohd Imran Khan, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Mohd Ashquin, Sarwat Sultana, Iqbal Ahmad

  Journal of biomedical nanotechnology. 02/2011; 7(1):114-5.

  The risk of occupational exposure to dolomite, an important mineral exists both in organized as well as unorganized sectors. Toxicological profiles of bulk dolomite are meagerly known in general and its nanotoxicity in particular. Effects of micro- and nano particles on cell viability, LDH leakage a... [more] The risk of occupational exposure to dolomite, an important mineral exists both in organized as well as unorganized sectors. Toxicological profiles of bulk dolomite are meagerly known in general and its nanotoxicity in particular. Effects of micro- and nano particles on cell viability, LDH leakage and markers of oxidative stress were observed. The study indicated that cytotoxicity of dolomite nanoparticles is significantly higher than the microparticles. The study thus suggests for the prescription of exposure limit for nanodolomite in the best interest of health of workers at risk of exposure under mining, milling and industrial environment.
• 3.25

  Impact points

  Toxic responses in primary rat hepatocytes exposed with occupational dust collected from work environment of bone-based industrial unit.

  Iqbal Ahmad, Huma Siddiqui, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Mohd Imran Khan, Govil Patil, Mohd Ashquin, Devendra Kumar Patel, Jamal Mohd Arif

  Chemosphere. 01/2011; 83(4):455-60.

  In this in vitro study we investigated the toxic responses in hepatocytes treated with occupational dust to which workers are exposed in bone-based industrial units. The present study investigated the toxicity mechanism of bone-based occupational dust, from a particular industrial unit, on isolated ... [more] In this in vitro study we investigated the toxic responses in hepatocytes treated with occupational dust to which workers are exposed in bone-based industrial units. The present study investigated the toxicity mechanism of bone-based occupational dust, from a particular industrial unit, on isolated rat hepatocytes. The hepatocytes were isolated by collagenase perfusion method and cell viability was determined by trypan blue exclusion and MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] assay treated with occupational dust at 0.1-1.0 mgmL(-1), for 120 min. The cell viability decreased significantly in a concentration-dependent manner. Dust induced significant membrane damage measured by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glutathione (GSH) release in culture media for 30-, 60- and 120 min treatment duration. The toxicity was found to be correlated with the induction of lipid peroxidation (LPO). In addition, nitric oxide (NO), and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) generation by occupational dusts were also found to be time- and concentration-dependent. Over all the present study provides initial evidences for the toxic potential of occupational dust generated in bone-based industries and, therefore, the dust exposure to workers in unorganized industrial units should be controlled.
• 3.24

  Impact points

  Nanotoxicity of pure silica mediated through oxidant generation rather than glutathione depletion in human lung epithelial cells.

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqusood Ahamed, Sudhir Kumar, Huma Siddiqui, Govil Patil, Mohd Ashquin, Iqbal Ahmad

  Toxicology. 10/2010; 276(2):95-102.

  Though, oxidative stress has been implicated in silica nanoparticles induced toxicity both in vitro and in vivo, but no similarities exist regarding dose-response relationship. This discrepancy may, partly, be due to associated impurities of trace metals that may present in varying amounts. Here, cy... [more] Though, oxidative stress has been implicated in silica nanoparticles induced toxicity both in vitro and in vivo, but no similarities exist regarding dose-response relationship. This discrepancy may, partly, be due to associated impurities of trace metals that may present in varying amounts. Here, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress parameters of two sizes (10 nm and 80 nm) of pure silica nanoparticles was determined in human lung epithelial cells (A549 cells). Both sizes of silica nanoparticles induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity as measured by MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Silica nanoparticles were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO). However, both sizes of silica nanoparticles had little effect on intracellular glutathione (GSH) level and the activities of glutathione metabolizing enzymes; glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Buthionine-[S,R]-sulfoximine (BSO) plus silica nanoparticles did not result in significant GSH depletion than that caused by BSO alone nor N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) afforded significant protection from ROS and LPO induced by silica nanoparticles. The rather unaltered level of GSH is also supported by finding no appreciable alteration in the level of GR and GPx. Our data suggest that the silica nanoparticles exert toxicity in A549 cells through the oxidant generation (ROS and LPO) rather than the depletion of GSH.
• 2.55

  Impact points

  Genotoxic potential of copper oxide nanoparticles in human lung epithelial cells.

  Maqusood Ahamed, Maqsood A Siddiqui, Mohd J Akhtar, Iqbal Ahmad, Aditya B Pant, Hisham A Alhadlaq

  Biochemical and biophysical research communications. 05/2010; 396(2):578-83.

  Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various applications. Recent studies suggest that oxidative stress may be the cause of the cytotoxicity of CuO NPs in mammalian cells. However, little is known about the genotoxicity of CuO NPs following exposure to human cells. This stud... [more] Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various applications. Recent studies suggest that oxidative stress may be the cause of the cytotoxicity of CuO NPs in mammalian cells. However, little is known about the genotoxicity of CuO NPs following exposure to human cells. This study was undertaken to investigate CuO NPs induced genotoxic response through p53 pathway in human pulmonary epithelial cells (A549). In addition, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress markers were also assessed. Results showed that cell viability was reduced by CuO NPs and degree of reduction was dose dependent. CuO NPs were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by depletion of glutathione and induction of lipid peroxidation, catalase and superoxide dismutase. The expression of Hsp70, the first tier biomarker of cellular damage was induced by CuO NPs. Further, CuO NPs up-regulated the cell cycle checkpoint protein p53 and DNA damage repair proteins Rad51 and MSH2 expression. These results demonstrate that CuO NPs possess a genotoxic potential in A549 cells which may be mediated through oxidative stress. Our short-term exposure study of high level induction of genotoxic response of CuO NPs will need to be further investigated to determine whether long-term exposure consequences may exist for CuO NPs application.
• 2.06

  Impact points

  The primary role of iron-mediated lipid peroxidation in the differential cytotoxicity caused by two varieties of talc nanoparticles on A549 cells and lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect exerted by ascorbic acid.

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Sudhir Kumar, Ramesh Chandra Murthy, Mohd Ashquin, Mohd Imran Khan, Govil Patil, Iqbal Ahmad

  Toxicology in vitro : an international journal published in association with BIBRA. 03/2010; 24(4):1139-47.

  Talc particles, the basic ingredient in different kinds of talc-based cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, pose a health risk to pulmonary and ovarian systems due to domestic and occupational exposures. Two types of talc nanoparticles depending on the source of geographical origin - indigenous- and... [more] Talc particles, the basic ingredient in different kinds of talc-based cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, pose a health risk to pulmonary and ovarian systems due to domestic and occupational exposures. Two types of talc nanoparticles depending on the source of geographical origin - indigenous- and commercial talc nanoparticles were assessed for their potential in vitro toxicity on A(549) cells; along with indigenous conventionally used microtalc particles. Cell viability, determined through live/dead staining and 3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, decreased as a function of concentration, origin and size of particles. Both varieties of talc nanoparticles differentially induced lipid peroxidation (LPO), which was correlated with the pattern of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and glutathione (GSH) depletion. Relatively higher cytotoxicity of indigenous nanotalc could be attributed to its higher content of iron as compared to commercial nanotalc. The known scavenger of ROS, l-ascorbic acid significantly inhibited LPO induction due to talc particles. Data suggest that nanotalc toxicity on A(549) cells was mediated through oxidative stress, wherein role of iron-mediated LPO was much pronounced in differential cytotoxicity.
• 2.41

  Impact points

  Elevated blood lead levels and cytogenetic markers in buccal epithelial cells of painters in India: genotoxicity in painters exposed to lead containing paints.

  Mohd Imran Khan, Iqbal Ahmad, Abbas Ali Mahdi, Mohd Javed Akhtar, Najmul Islam, Mohd Ashquin, Thuppil Venkatesh

  Environmental science and pollution research international. 03/2010; 17(7):1347-54.

  Lead, a major contaminant, is highly used in paint manufacturing due to its anticorrosive properties. Recent reports indicated high lead content among Indian paints used for commercial purposes. Painters are continuously exposed to these lead containing paints during painting of both commercial as w... [more] Lead, a major contaminant, is highly used in paint manufacturing due to its anticorrosive properties. Recent reports indicated high lead content among Indian paints used for commercial purposes. Painters are continuously exposed to these lead containing paints during painting of both commercial as well as residential buildings. Lead is well-known for its genotoxicty in occupational workers; however, in Indian painters the genotoxic effects of lead have not been reported to date. Therefore we aimed to study the genotoxic end points in painters due to their long-term exposure to these high lead-containing Indian paints. Study group selection was made after a questionnaire administration, which included questions about lifestyle and medical history to exclude exposure to the other potential sources of genotoxics. Blood and buccal cell samples were obtained from 30 male painters and from a similar number of age-matched controls of same location with no occupational exposure to lead. Blood lead levels (Pb-B) were measured in painters and controls. Micronucleus (MN) frequencies and nuclear changes, i.e., karyorrhexis, karyolysis, broken egg, and binucleated, were investigated in buccal epithelial cells. Painters had significantly (P < 0.01) greater lead levels in blood than the control group. MN frequencies and nuclear changes in buccal epithelial cells were also significantly (P < 0.01) elevated in painters as compared with control subjects. Regression analysis also revealed significant (P < 0.01) association of Pb-B with all the genotoxic endpoints in painters. Cytogenetic damage was significantly associated with Pb-B as no other co-founding factors (smoking, alcohols) showed significant difference between both groups. Lead is widely used in paints which may serve as potential source of exposure among painters due to their long-term engagement with paints. Our results clearly demonstrated genotoxicity among the exposed population as evident from increase micronucleus frequencies, frequent nuclear changes, and apoptosis. Many studies had previously related nuclear change events in buccal epithelial cells with the progression of different carcinomas. Furthermore in-depth investigations with larger sample size are needed to provide evidence to this effect. Here, we report cytogenetic toxicity to the exposed population by the high lead containing paints from India for the first time. Frequent, high and unregulated use of lead in paints may cause genetic mutation and may accelerate cytogenetic damage which may further lead to different carcinomas in painters. These findings need to be considered and necessary steps should be taken to protect the occupational workers engaged with these high lead-containing paints. The use of lead in paints is completely unregulated in India and routine surveillance of paints for lead content is still lacking. These paints are readily available in markets and are also used in other products (jewelry, miniblinds) which could be exported to other countries including United States and Europe. Serious consideration should be given to the inclusion of regulations and bans on the use of lead in paints. Moreover, attention should also be paid towards the use of various protective measures (face-masks, hand gloves, and separate clothes) by the workers as safe work practices during working periods.

• Genotoxic potential of copper oxide nanoparticles in human lung epithelial cells

  Maqusood Ahamed, Maqsood A. Siddiqui, Mohd J. Akhtar, Iqbal Ahmad, Aditya B. Pant, Hisham A. Alhadlaq

  Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.

  Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various applications. Recent studies suggest that oxidative stress may be the cause of the cytotoxicity of CuO NPs in mammalian cells. However, little is known about the genotoxicity of CuO NPs following exposure to human cells. This stud... [more] Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) are increasingly used in various applications. Recent studies suggest that oxidative stress may be the cause of the cytotoxicity of CuO NPs in mammalian cells. However, little is known about the genotoxicity of CuO NPs following exposure to human cells. This study was undertaken to investigate CuO NPs induced genotoxic response through p53 pathway in human pulmonary epithelial cells (A549). In addition, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress markers were also assessed. Results showed that cell viability was reduced by CuO NPs and degree of reduction was dose dependent. CuO NPs were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by depletion of glutathione and induction of lipid peroxidation, catalase and superoxide dismutase. The expression of Hsp70, the first tier biomarker of cellular damage was induced by CuO NPs. Further, CuO NPs up-regulated the cell cycle checkpoint protein p53 and DNA damage repair proteins Rad51 and MSH2 expression. These results demonstrate that CuO NPs possess a genotoxic potential in A549 cells which may be mediated through oxidative stress. Our short-term exposure study of high level induction of genotoxic response of CuO NPs will need to be further investigated to determine whether long-term exposure consequences may exist for CuO NPs application.

• The primary role of iron-mediated lipid peroxidation in the differential cytotoxicity caused by two varieties of talc nanoparticles on A549 cells and lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect exerted by ascorbic acid

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Sudhir Kumar, Ramesh Chandra Murthy, Mohd Ashquin, Mohd Imran Khan, Govil Patil, Iqbal Ahmad

  Toxicology in Vitro.

  Talc particles, the basic ingredient in different kinds of talc-based cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, pose a health risk to pulmonary and ovarian systems due to domestic and occupational exposures. Two types of talc nanoparticles depending on the source of geographical origin – indigenous- and... [more] Talc particles, the basic ingredient in different kinds of talc-based cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, pose a health risk to pulmonary and ovarian systems due to domestic and occupational exposures. Two types of talc nanoparticles depending on the source of geographical origin – indigenous- and commercial talc nanoparticles were assessed for their potential in vitro toxicity on A549 cells; along with indigenous conventionally used microtalc particles. Cell viability, determined through live/dead staining and 3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, decreased as a function of concentration, origin and size of particles. Both varieties of talc nanoparticles differentially induced lipid peroxidation (LPO), which was correlated with the pattern of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and glutathione (GSH) depletion. Relatively higher cytotoxicity of indigenous nanotalc could be attributed to its higher content of iron as compared to commercial nanotalc. The known scavenger of ROS, l-ascorbic acid significantly inhibited LPO induction due to talc particles. Data suggest that nanotalc toxicity on A549 cells was mediated through oxidative stress, wherein role of iron-mediated LPO was much pronounced in differential cytotoxicity.

• Nanotoxicity of pure silica mediated through oxidant generation rather than glutathione depletion in human lung epithelial cells

  Mohd Javed Akhtar, Maqusood Ahamed, Sudhir Kumar, Huma Siddiqui, Govil Patil, Mohd Ashquin, Iqbal Ahmad

  Toxicology.

  Though, oxidative stress has been implicated in silica nanoparticles induced toxicity both in vitro and in vivo, but no similarities exist regarding dose–response relationship. This discrepancy may, partly, be due to associated impurities of trace metals that may present in varying amounts. Here, cy... [more] Though, oxidative stress has been implicated in silica nanoparticles induced toxicity both in vitro and in vivo, but no similarities exist regarding dose–response relationship. This discrepancy may, partly, be due to associated impurities of trace metals that may present in varying amounts. Here, cytotoxicity and oxidative stress parameters of two sizes (10 nm and 80 nm) of pure silica nanoparticles was determined in human lung epithelial cells (A549 cells). Both sizes of silica nanoparticles induced dose-dependent cytotoxicity as measured by MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide] and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays. Silica nanoparticles were also found to induce oxidative stress in dose-dependent manner indicated by induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO). However, both sizes of silica nanoparticles had little effect on intracellular glutathione (GSH) level and the activities of glutathione metabolizing enzymes; glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Buthionine-[S,R]-sulfoximine (BSO) plus silica nanoparticles did not result in significant GSH depletion than that caused by BSO alone nor N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) afforded significant protection from ROS and LPO induced by silica nanoparticles. The rather unaltered level of GSH is also supported by finding no appreciable alteration in the level of GR and GPx. Our data suggest that the silica nanoparticles exert toxicity in A549 cells through the oxidant generation (ROS and LPO) rather than the depletion of GSH.