In-Vitro evaluation of the cytotoxic effect of cerium oxide particles with different particle sizes on human aortic vascular smooth muscle

There are concerns about the public health impact of emerging nanotechnology products. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) play a vital role in cosmetics, consumer products, instruments and high technology. Nanoceria is a potential free radical scavenger and antioxidant. In our study, the toxic effect of nanoceria on the aortic smooth muscle will be evaluated. The cytotoxic effect of micro and nano cerium oxide on human aortic smooth muscle will be evaluated by MTT test. Caspase 3, TNF-α, caspase 9, SOD, GSH, catalase mRNA expressions of cells will be determined by qRT-PCR in nanoceria treated cells. Serum amounts will be determined in cells by ICP-MS. Information about the toxic action mechanism of cerium oxide nanoparticles will contribute to the design of safer nanoparticles.