Zinc and titanium nanoparticles exposure intensifies the risk of skin issues by elevating cytokine gene expression despite following current international safety protocols.

OBJECTIVES

The growing use of nanomaterials in daily life has raised concerns about their biological effects and potential toxicity. This study examines the impact of Zinc oxide (ZnO) and Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles (NPs) on the expression of cytokine genes related to inflammation and their effects on skin abnormalities.

METHODS

Conducted in Iran in November 2021, this study involved 110 factory workers, all adhering to international safety protocols when handling nanomaterials. Workers were classified by their years of experience in the warehouse and production lines. Skin complications were assessed by physicians, alongside measurements of inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) using RT-PCR, and CRP levels using a diagnostic kit. These workers were compared with a control group of administrative employees unexposed to nanoparticles. The concentrations of Zn and Ti nanoparticles in the workers were measured before and after their shifts.

RESULTS

The concentrations of Zn and Ti nanomaterials in these individuals were measured before and after their daily work shifts. Results were modeled with skin manifestations in Network Pharmacology, drawing on previous studies. Blood nanoparticle measurements before and after work shifts indicated that current protective methods are inadequate to prevent NP penetration into the body.

CONCLUSION

The results show a strong correlation between years of exposure to nanoparticles and increased inflammatory gene expression, CRP, and skin manifestations, with p values less than 0.0001. The results highlight the need for enhanced safety measures when using nanomaterials in industries like cosmetics, hygiene products, and food, to prevent potential health risks from prolonged exposure.