Biocompatibility analysis of halloysite clay nanotubes

The biocompatibility of four different halloysite clay nanotubes (HNT-N,-U,-P,-S), from various deposits in the world, was evaluated. More precisely, we tested their cytogenetic effects through MTT assay (for cytotoxic ef-fects), and CBMN assay (for genotoxic effects) on mammalian cell cultures (CHO, HeLa, and HepG2 cell lines). Our results indicated a generally high level of biocompatibility of these new-generation products, however at high concentrations, and long times of exposition, we observed a moderate level of toxicity. Thus, we suggest caution in the future use of great amounts of HNTs due to their effects on living organisms.

Automated summary

The biocompatibility of four different halloysite clay nanotubes (HNT-N,-U,-P,-S) from various deposits was evaluated, indicating a generally high level of biocompatibility but with moderate toxicity at high concentrations and long times of exposition. Caution should be exercised in the future use of large amounts of HNTs due to their effects on living organisms.