Toxic effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on reproduction in mammals
Fan Minghui, Ran Sun, Jiang Yuxue, Sheng Minjia
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO 2 ) are widely used in food, textiles, coatings and personal care products; however, they cause environmental and health concerns. Nano-TiO 2 can accumulate in the reproductive organs of mammals in different ways, affect the development of the ovum and sperm, damage reproductive organs and harm the growth and development of offspring. The oxidative stress response in germ cells, irregular cell apoptosis, inflammation, genotoxicity and hormone synthesis disorder are the main mechanisms of nano-TiO 2 toxicity. Possible measures to reduce the harmful effects of nano-TiO 2 on humans and nontarget organisms have emerged as an underexplored topic requiring further investigation.