Regensburg 2007 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 16: Poster Session I

BP 16.25: Poster

Tuesday, March 27, 2007, 17:00–19:30, Poster D

Toxicologic impact of Carbon Nanotubes on Caco-2 cells — •Heike Kreher, Claus-Michael Lehr, and Marc Schneider — Universität des Saarlandes, Biopharmazie und Pharmazeutische Technologie, Campus Saarbrücken, Geb. A4 1 Postfach 151150, D-66041 Saarbrücken, Deutschland

Nanoparticles with most interesting properties for scientists and industry are Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) which are stronger than steel at only 1/6th the weight and have higher current density than copper. For this reason CNTs are manufactured in a huge amount. In addition CNTs are produced in diesel engines of cars and in combusters. Thus it appears that humans are already exposed to CNTs in the air and it is important to know how these particles affect pulmonary cells and intestinal cells in terms of acute and long-term toxicity. After imaging of dispersed CNTs, we tested their influence in vitro on Caco-2 cells, which have morphological and biochemical similarity to the small intestinal columnar epithelium. We used standard assays to investigate the viability and the cytotoxicity respectively (LDH- and MTT-assays). Another important parameter, when considering the interaction of materials with epithelial layers is the barrier function itself. This was tested measuring the electrical resistance across the barrier (TEER values). To perform the tests, CNTs were suspended in medium in different concentrations and then the solutions were sonicated for 3 minutes. LDH test did not show any disturbance of the membrane integrity of the cells. Whereas MTT test showed a slight toxicity with increasing CNT concentration.