Yilma A.N., Singh S.R., Dennis V.A.
Alabama State University, US
Keywords: Chlamydia trachomatis, cytokines, inflammation, silver nanoparticles
Chlamydia trachomatis is an important cause of sexually transmitted infection that can manifest itself as either acute cervicitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and more commonly as a chronic asymptomatic infection. Early intervention strategies that can reduce excessive inflammatory responses could benefit control efforts in reducing the disease severity. With the advent of nanoscience, pure silver now be made into nanometer-sized particles. As result, we are able to explore the role of silver. We tested three different sizes of Ag-PVP (10, 20 and 80 nm) for their abilities to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines during C. trachomatis infection. Our results show all sizes of Ag-PVP reduced IL-6 and TNF, with the 10 nm size exhibiting the greatest anti-inflammatory effect. Our MTT assay shows that the anti-inflammatory effect of Ag-PVP is not due to cell death. However, at higher concentrations 20 and 80 nm sizes, but not the 10 nm size, were toxic to cells. We also demonstrated the ability of Ag-PVP (10 nm) to reduce the expression levels of CD80 and/or CD86 during infection suggesting their role not only to control pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by innate immune cells but also those produced during the adaptive immune response.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2012: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy (Volume 3)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 242 - 245
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Cancer Nanotechnology
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6276-9