The interaction of SiO

To clarify the mechanisms of interaction between SiO nanoparticles (NPs) and the plasma membrane of GT1-7 neuroendocrine cells, with focus on the activation of calcium-permeable channels, responsible for the long lasting calcium influx and modulation of the electrical activity in these cells. Nontoxic doses of SiO NPs were administered to the cells. Calcium imaging and patch clamp techniques were combined with a pharmacological approach. TRPV4, Cx and Panx-like channels are the major components of the NP-induced inward currents. Preincubation with the antioxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine strongly reduced the [Ca ] increase. These findings suggest that SiO NPs directly activate a complex set of calcium-permeable channels, possibly by catalyzing free radical production.