Graphene oxide-induced, reactive oxygen species-mediated mitochondrial dysfunctions and apoptosis: high-dose toxicity in normal cells

The cytotoxic effects of graphene oxide nanoparticles (GONPs) using MTT assays, observance of apoptotic markers, and oxidative stress were outlined. Rat embryonic fibroblasts (REFs) and human epithelial breast cells (HBLs) were used at 250, 500 and 750 μg/ml concentrations. Significant cytotoxic and apoptotic effects were observed. Analyses of CYP2E1 and malondialdehyde concentrations in REF and HBL-100 cell lines after exposing to GONPs confirmed the nanomaterials toxicity. However, the glutathione levels in REF and HBL-100 cell lines showed a substantial reduction compared with the control. The cytochrome CYP2E1, glutathione, malondialdehyde and caspase-3 alterations provided a plausible interlinked relationship. The study confirmed the GONPs cytotoxic effects on REF and HBL-100 cell lines. The outcome suggested caution in wide-spread applications of GONPs, which could have implications for occupational health also.