Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induce Oxidative Stress-Mediated Apoptosis in Human Keratinocyte Cells

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO(2) NPs) are the most commonly used metal oxide NPs in various industrial and commercial products. The present study has demonstrated a significant cellular uptake of TiO(2) NPs in the human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) using transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry. The data exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) concentration dependent decrease in cell viability and glutathione with concomitant increase in lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species. The increased oxidative stress further leads to apoptosis after 48 h of exposure. Our study demonstrates oxidative stress mediated apoptosis in human keratinocyte cells exposed to TiO(2) NPs.