AIM

The aim of our study was to explore the role of nuclear factor erythroid 2 (NF-E2)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) on the exposure of SiO nanoparticles (NPs) and its influence.

MATERIALS & METHODS: To understand the mechanism of NP-induced oxidative stress, the involvement of oxidative-stress-responding transcription factors and the Nrf2/antioxidant reactive element (ARE) signaling pathway in the toxicity of SiO NPs' exposure was investigated via in vivo and in vitro models.

RESULTS

A549 cells showed a significant cytotoxic effect while A549-shNrf2 cells showed decreased cell viability after nm-SiO exposure. SiO NPs' exposure activated the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway. Nrf2 exposed mice showed increased reactive oxygen species, 8-hydroxyl deoxyguanosine level and decreased total antioxidant capacity. Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway activation disrupted, leading inhibition of heme oxygenase-1 and upregulation of PKR-like endoplasmic-reticulum-regulated kinase.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that Nrf2 could protect against oxidative stress induced by SiO NPs, and the Nrf2/ARE pathway might be involved in mild-to-moderate SiO NP-induced oxidative stress that was evident from dampened activity of Nrf2.