Uptake of nanoparticles from sunscreen physical filters into cells from increased environmental microwave radiation: increased potential risk of use of sunscreens to human health

Authors: Horikoshi, S., Iwabuchi, M., Kawaguchi, M. et al.

Year: 2022

Category: Biochemistry

Journal: Photochem Photobiol Sci

DOI: 10.1007/s43630-022-00259-3

URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s43630-022-00259-3

Abstract

Overview

This study explores the chemical risks associated with the use of sunscreens containing photocatalysts in the context of increasing microwave environmental exposure, referred to as electronic smog.

Findings

  • The research investigates photocatalytic damage to mouse skin fibroblasts (NIH/3T3) in vitro, using silica-coated ZnO and TiO2 contained in commercially available sunscreens.
  • Exposure conditions involved simultaneous irradiation with UV light and microwaves, with microwave levels near human health threshold power levels.
  • Experiments demonstrated enhanced photocatalytic activity and cellular uptake of ZnO and TiO2 under combined UV and microwave radiation, leading to significant cell death.
  • Both degradation of DNA plasmids and the rhodamine B dye were accelerated with concurrent UV and microwave radiation.

Conclusion

Enhanced photocatalytic activity due to microwave radiation in the presence of UVA/UVB significantly elevates potential health risks. This heightened activity causes nanoparticles from sunscreen to be absorbed more readily by cells, posing additional human health risks.

nanoparticles sunscreen microwave radiation photocatalysts human health risk
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