Multi-walled carbon nanotubes induce apoptosis via mitochondrial pathway and scavenger receptor

► Taurine functionalized MWCNTs and acid-treated MWCNTs were used. ► Tau-MWCNTs showed less cytotoxicity and apoptotic effect than aci-MWCNTs. ► Scavenger receptors were involved in MWCNTs induced apoptosis. ► Caspase-9-dependent mitochondrial pathway were involved in MWCNTs induced apoptosis.