Quantum dot-related genotoxicity perturbation can be attenuated by PEG encapsulation

Nanomaterial–biosystem interaction is emerging as a major concern hindering wide adoption of nanomaterials. Using quantum dots (Qdots) of different sizes (Qdot-440 nm and Qdot-680 nm) as a model system, we studied the effects of polyethylene glycol (PEG) thin-layer surface modification in attenuating Qdot-related cytotoxicity, genotoxicity perturbation and oxidative stress in a cellular system. We found that uncoated Qdots (U-Qdots) made of core/shell CdSe/ZnS could indeed induce cytotoxic effects, including the inhibition of cell growth. Also, both the neutral comet assay and γH2AX foci formation showed that U-Qdots caused significant DNA damage in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In contrast, results from cytotoxicity analysis and γH2AX generation indicate minimal impact on cells after exposure to PEG-coated Qdots. This lack of observed toxic effects from PEG-coated Qdots may be due to the fact that PEG-coating can inhibit ROS generation induced by U-Qdots. Based on these observations, we conclude that the genotoxicity of Qdots could be significantly decreased following proper surface modification, such as PEG encapsulation. In addition, PEG encapsulation may also serve as a general method to attenuate nanotoxicity for other nanoparticles.

► PEG coating attenuates Qdots-induced cytotoxicity in HSF cells.
► PEG encapsulation attenuates Qdots-induced DNA damage.
► Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is involved in Qdots-induced DNA damage.