Work

Comprehensive Evaluation of the Genotoxic Potential of Food Additive Titanium Dioxide in Human Intestinal Cell Systems

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Titanium dioxide (TiO2), widely recognized as a whitening food additive, has been extensively employed in food products such as confectionery, sauces, and coffee creamers. The potential genotoxicity of TiO2 has recently raised increasing concern, especially after the European Union prohibited its use as a food additive due to genotoxicity risks. The contradictory outcomes of in vitro and in vivo studies emphasize the necessity for more rigorous and systematic evaluation. In this study, we assessed the potential genotoxicity of food-grade TiO2 in human intestinal cell lines and intestinal barrier models. Three distinct genotoxicity assays were conducted: the comet assay (DNA tail formation), chromosomal aberration analysis, and the micronucleus assay. The results revealed that TiO2 exposure led to DNA damage primarily associated with oxidative stress in various intestinal cell systems at actual intake levels, regardless of metabolic activation; however, it did not trigger chromosomal aberrations or micronucleus formation. Thus, TiO2 appears to cause in vitro genotoxic damage at the DNA level, but not at macroscopic endpoints, such as chromosomal aberrations or micronucleus formation. Further in-depth in vivo study is required to definitively determine the potential genotoxicity of TiO2 in the food industry.

Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/ijms262412026

Authors: Han-Na Nam, Su-Min Jeong, Su-Bin Kim, Soo-Jin Choi

Institution: Seoul Women's University

Language: English

Topic: Carcinogens and Genotoxicity Assessment

Subfield: Cancer Research

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,499