EVALUATION POTENTIAL HAZARD OF MOLYBDENUM (VI) OXIDE NANOPARTICLES FOR HUMAN HEALTH

Abstract

Introduction: nanosized materials are actively introduced into various areas of human economic activity, which has led to environmental pollution and an increase in the probability of exposure of the population and workers to nanosized particles, which are more toxic compared to microsized chemical analogues. A characteristic example of such a nanomaterial is nanoparticles of molybdenum (VI) oxide (MoO3 NPs). The expanding range of application of MoO3 NPs increases the risk of developing pathological disorders in the health of the exposed population, due to the negative effects of the action of this nanomaterial. In this regard, there is a need to assess the potential hazard of MoO3 NPs for human health. Methods: The potential hazard was assessed in accordance with MR 1.2.2522-09. The physical parameters of MoO3 NPs (size, specific surface area, total pore volume, shape) were determined based on the results of our own experimental studies in comparison with MoO3 microparticles. Generalization of information on physicochemical, molecular biological, cytological, physiological and ecological properties was performed according to the data presented in the scientific literature. Based on the predictive-analytical modeling of the properties of MoO3 NPs, the potential hazard coefficient (D) and the coefficient of incompleteness of data assessment (U) was calculated. Results: 84.17% nanopowder consists of spherical particles 100 nm in size, the average diameter of which was 58.80 nm, the specific surface area 3.66 m2/g, and the total pore volume 0.0133 cm3/g. The micropowder consists of prismatic particles, the size of which is 57.99 times larger compared to MoO3 NPs, the specific surface area and total pore volume are 1.17 and 1.18 times smaller, respectively. MoO3 NPs enhance the generation of intracellular free radicals, accumulate in cells, damage organelle membranes, cause DNA strand breaks, affect gene expression and proteomic profile, which leads to cell death. The toxic effects of MoO3 NPs in vivo are showed in pathomorphological changes in the tissues of the liver, organs of the reproductive system, changes in blood parameters, death of exposed animals, and long-term effects. It has been established that MoO3 NPs have an average degree of potential hazard to human health (D = 1.750), the assessment is reliable (U = 0.147). Conclusions: the obtained results should be taken into account when improving the methodology of hygienic regulation of nanomaterials in environmental objects and developing preventive measures for workers and the population exposed to MoO3 NPs.