Influence of ZnO- and Ag-nanoparticles on the epithelial barrier function of human nasal mucosa cells

Introduction The integrity of the barrier function of nasal epithelial cells is essential for the defense against pollutants. Zinc oxide (ZnO) and silver (Ag) are substances commonly used for the production of nanomaterials, so exposure of respiratory epithelial cells is also likely in everyday life.

Methods Human nasal mucosa cells were incubated with ZnO- and Ag-nanoparticles (NP) at subcytotoxic doses. The integrity of epithelial barrier function was determined by measuring the transepithelial resistance (TEER), the permeability was quantified using the FITC-dextran test. The expression of cell contact proteins was measured by RT-PCR.

Results After exposure to NP, transepithelial resistance decreased in a concentration-dependent manner, and the permeability increased concomitantly. The expression of occludin, claudin-1, and cadherin decreased with increasing NP-concentration. The registered effects were greater after treatment with ZnO than with Ag.

Discussion The processing of nanoscale materials in everyday products is the main source of human exposure. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of ZnO-NP in human nasal mucosal cells have already been demonstrated, but there are only few studies on the effects of subcytotoxic doses on the nasal mucosal barrier. Air pollutants are known to exacerbate respiratory diseases and to increase the allergenicity of various allergens. ZnO- and Ag-NPs also have the potential to trigger an aggravation of allergic symptoms by damaging the epithelial barrier function in the case of predisposition.

Publication History

Article published online:
12 May 2023