An assessment of the cytotoxic effects of graphene nanoparticles on the epithelial cells of the human lung

Nanomaterials are widely used nowadays in a range of technological and biomedical fields. Graphene as a nanomaterial used in the health-care sector and in workplaces has raised some concerns about its toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of graphene nanoparticles (GNPs) on the A549 epithelial cells of the human lung. The GNPs were synthesized from graphite by the modified Hummer method. The physicochemical characteristics of GNPs were identified by the transmission electron microscope, the scanning electron microscope, and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method. The hydrodynamic size of GNPs in the dispersion media was examined using the dynamic light scattering technique. The GNPs were dispersed, after which the A549 cells were cultured. Finally, the cell viability was assayed by the MTT assay. The statistical analysis of variance was used to describe the relationship between the concentration/time variables and the GNP-induced cell deaths. The probit regression model was also used to achieve toxicological indicators. The results showed that the toxicological effects of GNPs on the A549 epithelial cells of the human lung are dose- and time-dependent. The GNPs were more cytotoxic after a 72-h exposure period compared to a 24-h and 48-h exposure period. The inhibitory concentration of 50% and “no observed adverse effect concentration” were estimated to be 40,653.1 and 0.059 µg/mL, respectively. The results of this study can be helpful in developing the occupational exposure limit for GNPs and in improving occupational health programs in workplaces. However, more investigation is needed to specify the toxicological mechanisms of GNPs.