Next-Generation Magnetic Nanocomposites: Cytotoxic and Genotoxic Effects of Coated and Uncoated Ferric Cobalt Boron (FeCoB) Nanoparticles In Vitro

Abstract

Metal nanoparticles (NP s) have unique physicochemical properties and a widespread application scope depending on their composition and surface characteristics. Potential biomedical applications and the growing diversity of novel nanocomposites highlight the need for toxicological hazard assessment of next‐generation magnetic nanomaterials. Our study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of coated and uncoated ferric cobalt boron (FeCoB) NP s (5–15 nm particle size) in cultured normal human dermal fibroblasts. Cell proliferation was assessed via ATP bioluminescence kit, and DNA breakage and chromosomal damage were measured by alkaline comet assay and micronucleus test. Polyacryl acid‐coated FeCoB NP s [polyacrylic acid (PAA )‐FeCoB NP s) and uncoated FeCoB NP s inhibited cell proliferation at 10 μg/ml. DNA strand breaks were significantly increased by PAA ‐coated FeCoB NP s, uncoated FeCoB NP s and l ‐cysteine‐coated FeCoB NP s (Cys‐FeCoB NP s), although high concentrations (10 μg/ml) of coated NP s (Cys‐ and PAA ‐FeCoB NP s) showed significantly more DNA breakage when compared to uncoated ones. Uncoated FeCoB NP s and coated NP s (PAA ‐FeCoB NP s) also induced the formation of micronuclei. Additionally, PAA ‐coated NP s and uncoated FeCoB NP s showed a negative correlation between cell proliferation and DNA strand breaks, suggesting a common pathomechanism, possibly by oxidation‐induced DNA damage. We conclude that uncoated FeCoB NP s are cytotoxic and genotoxic at in vitro conditions. Surface coating of FeCoB NP s with Cys and PAA does not prevent but rather aggravates DNA damage. Further safety assessment and a well‐considered choice of surface coating are needed prior to application of FeCoB nanocomposites in biomedicine.