A review on the toxicity of silver nanoparticles against different biosystems

Despite significant progress made in the past two decades, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have not yet made it to the clinical trials. In addition, they showed both positive and negative effects in their toxicity from unicellular organism to well-developed multi-organ system, for example, rat. Although it is generally accepted that capped (bio)molecules have synergistic bioactivities and diminish the toxicity of metallic Ag core, convincing evidence is completely lacking. Therefore, in this review, we first highlight the recent in vivo toxicity studies of chemically manufactured AgNPs, biologically synthesized AgNPs and reference AgNPs of European Commission. Then, their toxic effects are compared with each other and the overlooked factors leading to the potential conflict of ob-tained toxicity results are discussed. Finally, suggestions are given to better design and conduct the future toxicity studies and to fast-track the successful clinical translation of AgNPs as well.

Automated summary

Despite progress, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have not yet reached clinical trials and show both positive and negative effects in toxicity. Convincing evidence for the synergistic bioactivities and diminished toxicity of capped (bio)molecules is lacking. This review highlights recent in vivo toxicity studies on chemically manufactured AgNPs, biologically synthesized AgNPs, and reference AgNPs, comparing their toxic effects and discussing overlooked factors leading to potential conflicts. Suggestions are given for better designing and conducting future toxicity studies and fast-tracking the clinical translation of AgNPs.