Assessment of mutagenic, recombinogenic and carcinogenic potential of titanium dioxide nanocristals in somatic cells of Drosophila melanogaster

Nanoparticles have been widely used in several sectors and their long-term effect on the body and environment remains unknown. To evaluate the mutagenic, recombinogenic and carcinogenic potential of 11 nm titanium dioxide nanocrystals (TiO2 NCs), the Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) and the Test for Detection of Epithelial Tumors Clones (Warts-Wts) were used, both in Drosophila melanogaster. Third-instar larvae (72 + 4 h), obtained in both tests, were treated with different concentrations of TiO2 NCs ranging from 6.25 to 100 mM. Ultrapure water and urethane were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. At ST cross, all concentrations of TiO2 NCs showed a significant increase in the frequencies of mutant spots, demonstrating higher recombination rates. At the HB cross, only the 50 mM concentration showed a negative result. In the Wts Test, all used concentrations were carcinogenic, except for the 100 mM one, which was toxic. No relationship was demonstrated between the used concentrations and the obtained responses. There was no interference of the cytochrome P450 enzyme complex in the induction of mutant spots.