In vitro evaluation of crystalline silicon nanoparticles cytotoxicity

The effects of silicon-based nanoparticles on viability and cellular organelle state were evaluated in human lymphocytes in vitro. We did not find any changes in cell viability in experimental groups compared to control. Cell death occurred mainly due to apoptosis and late apoptosis, and necrosis/apoptosis ratio in the control and after exposure to nanoparticles remained unchanged. All silicon-based nanoparticles (Si, SiB, SiPd) caused an increase of reactive oxygen species in the cells. Evaluation of mitochondria and lysosomes state after interaction with modified nanoparticles demonstrated slight decrease in its function. Thus, modification of silicon nanoparticles did not significantly reduce their biocompatibility.