Toxicological mode of action of ZnO nanoparticles: Impact on immune cells

Abstract The use of nanoscale materials is growing exponentially as concerns rise about the human hazards to it. It is assumed that living beings are coevolved with nanoparticles ever since the origin of life on earth and therefore, they must have developed the defense and toxicity mitigating mechanisms for nanoparticles. Although having peculiar properties these new materials also present new health risks upon interacting with biological systems. Zinc oxide is the most widely used nanoparticles among various nanomaterials. Recently, these nanoparticles have been shown to specifically kill cancerous cells; therefore, it is believed that these nanoparticles may be used as an alternative anti-tumor agent. However, it is also known that these nanoparticles pose several deleterious effects to living beings. It is therefore critical to understand the nature and origin of the toxicity imposed by these nanomaterials. Keeping these points in mind the present review provides updated information on various aspects of toxicities induced by these engineered nanoparticles.