Caution: Gold nanoparticles!
Researchers at Stony Brook University, working under the guidance of Professor Tatiana Mironova, have found that gold nanoparticles, which are part of personal hygiene products, contrast agents for magnetic nuclear tomography and solar cells, can inhibit the maturation of adipose tissue stem cells, thereby accelerating the aging process, the appearance of wrinkles, slowing healing wounds and the development of diabetes.
As part of the work, scientists analyzed in the laboratory the effect of very low doses of gold nanoparticles on the basic functions of cells of various types, including adipose tissue cells. Subcutaneous adipose tissue performs several important functions in the body, including acting as an insulator protecting against cold and heat, a reservoir of nutrients. The so-called visceral adipose tissue surrounding the internal organs is necessary to maintain their correct location in the body. In addition, adipose tissue is part of the yellow bone marrow and is one of the main structural components of the mammary glands.
The results of the experiments showed that gold nanoparticles almost instantly penetrate into the stem cells contained in adipose tissue and accumulate there. The presence of nanoparticles inside cells disrupts many cellular functions, such as movement, division and contraction of collagen fibers. According to the authors, they were most concerned about the influence exerted by nanoparticles on the regulation of gene and RNA expression, as well as the suppression of stem cell differentiation into mature adipocytes caused by them.
Thus, the results of the study demonstrated that gold nanoparticles, which are considered inert and safe for humans, actually have a detrimental effect on adipose tissue stem cells used by the body in the regeneration of many organs, including skin, nerves and bones.
Moreover, the presence of gold nanoparticles suppresses the secretion of adiponectin protein by fat cells involved in the regulation of glucose levels and the breakdown of fatty acids. This indicates their potential ability to disrupt the body's metabolism.
However, according to Professor Mironova, the good news is that when gold nanoparticles are removed from the culture, the normal functioning of cells is gradually restored.
Article by Tatsiana Mironava et al. Gold nanoparticles cellular toxicity and recovery: Adipose Derived Stromal cells is published in the journal Nanotoxicology.
Evgeniya Ryabtseva
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru based on materials from Stony Brook University, via Newswise:
Nanoparticles Found in Everyday Items Can Inhibit Fat Storage.
22.04.2013