Nano copper induced apoptosis in podocytes via increasing oxidative stress

► This is the first in vitro study assessing effects of nano-Cu on podocytes. ► MTT assay showed that nano-Cu decreased podocyte viability. ► There was prominent accumulation of ROS and MDA when cells were treated with nano-Cu. ► Results suggested that nano-Cu affected oxidant-antioxidant balance in podocytes.