Nanomaterials (NMs) are widely used in commercial and medical products, such as cosmetics, vaccines, and drug carriers. Exposure to NMs via various routes such as dermal, inhalation, and ingestion has been shown to gain access to the systemic circulation, resulting in the accumulation of NMs in the liver. The unique organ structures and blood flow features facilitate the liver sequestration of NMs, which may cause adverse effects in the liver. Currently, most in vivo studies were focused on NMs accumulation at the organ level and evaluation of the gross changes in liver structure and functions, however, cell-type-specific uptake and responses, as well as the molecular mechanisms at cellular levels linking the effects at organ levels are lagging. Herein, we systemically reviewed the diverse interactions of NMs with the liver, specifically on major liver cell types including Kupffer cells (KCs), liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and hepatocytes as well as the detailed molecular mechanisms involved. In addition, we also reviewed the knowledge gained on nano-liver interactions that could facilitate the development of safer nanoproducts and nanomedicine. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Understanding Nanomaterial-Liver Interactions to Facilitate the Development of Safer Nanoapplications.