Effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on the expression of proinflammatory proteins in murine macrophages raw 264.7 cells

Zinc is a microelement essential for the body. It has a great impact on the proper development and renewal of tissues, reproductive system, skin condition, or immune processes. Zincis involved practically in all aspects of the immune system and the production and activation of white blood cells. This work aimed to determine the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP) on the expression of pro-inflammatory proteins in murine macrophages RAW 264.7, activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Using the immunodetection technique the expression of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E2 synthase (cPGES), prostaglandin F2α receptor (FP receptor) and nuclear factor Nrf2 was determined. Statistically the highest expression of COX-2, cPGES, and FP receptor was observed in LPS-activated macrophages. RAW 264.7 cells supplementation with ZnONP 100 nmol and 500 nmol and LPS activation resulted in repression of COX-2 and cPGES, and an increased expression of Nrf2 protein when compared to control. The results suggest an anti-inflammatory effect and activation of the antioxidant system by ZnONP in RAW 264.7 macrophages. It seems appropriate to conduct further research on the molecular mechanism of action of ZnONP in eukaryotic cells.