Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology has revolutionized sequence-based research. In recent years, high-throughput sequencing has become the method of choice in studying the toxicity of chemical agents through observing and measuring changes in transcript levels. Engineered nanomaterial (ENM)-toxicity has become a major field of research and has adopted microarray and newer RNA-Seq methods. Recently, nanotechnology has become a promising tool in the diagnosis and treatment of several diseases in humans. However, due to their high stability, they are likely capable of remaining in the body and environment for long periods of time. Their mechanisms of toxicity and long-lasting effects on our health is still poorly understood. This review explores the effects of three ENMs including carbon nanotubes (CNTs), quantum dots (QDs), and Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) by cross examining publications on transcriptomic changes induced by these nanomaterials.

InP/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) are an emerging option in QD technologies for uses of fluorescent imaging as well as targeted drug and anticancer therapies based on their customizable properties. In this study we explored effects of InP/ZnS when treated with HeLa cervical cancer cells. We employed XTT viability assays, reactive oxygen species (ROS) analysis, and apoptosis analysis to better understand cytotoxicity extents at different concentrations of InP/ZnS. In addition, we compared the transcriptome profile from the QD-treated HeLa cells with that of untreated HeLa cells to identify changes to the transcriptome in response to the QD. RT-qPCR assay was performed to confirm the findings of transcriptome analysis, and the QD mode of action was illustrated. Our study determined both IC50 concentration of 69 µg/mL and MIC concentration of 167 µg/mL of InP/ZnS. It was observed via XTT assay that cell viability was decreased significantly at the MIC. Production of superoxide, measured by ROS assay with flow cytometry, was decreased, whereas levels of nitrogen radicals increased. Using analysis of apoptosis, we found that induced cell death in the QD-treated samples was shown to be significantly increased when compared to untreated cells. We conclude InP/ZnS QD to decrease cell viability by inducing stress via ROS levels, apoptosis induction, and alteration of transcriptome.