We have previously shown that the natural clay mineral sepiolite spontaneously internalize into mammalian cells, facilitating the spontaneous transport and delivery of molecules, such as DNA, opening alluring avenues for biothechnological and biomedical applications. However, this interaction sepiolite/mammalian cells raises the question of the potential risks of toxicity. In addition, the fibrous nature of sepiolite raised health concerns about possible asbestos-like effects. Here, we addressed the cellular response of human cells to interactions with sepiolite. We monitored three typical cellular responses to stress. We show that mammalian cells respond to sepiolite exposure, inducing the production of reactive oxygen species and the expression of inflammatory cytokines. This shows that actually cells detect sepiolite contamination as a foreign body, and respond. Remarkably, sepiolite exposure did not alter the cell cycle distribution and triggers neither the DNA damage response program nor apoptosis, suggesting that it does not significantly assault the genetic material in mammalian cells. Moreover, the production of inflammatory cytokines open potential enticing development aiming at improving immunotherapy. Therefore, we compared the capacities and patterns of cytokine production between sepiolite, Montmorillonite (Cloisite), Halloysite, Laponite and nano-diamonds. Our data reveal that sepiolite and Cloisite are among the most efficient cytokines inducers.

Sepiolite induces different responses in human cells: Comparison of cytokines production with other micro-nano particles

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

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