Abstract

Aim: To investigate the effects of the different morphological characteristics of Prussian blue nanoparticles (PB NPs) on their biocompatibility and biosafety. Materials & methods: PB NPs with different sizes, shapes and charges were synthesized and their biosafety and biocompatibility performance were systematically compared in vitro and in vivo. Results: Increased size and positive charge of PB NPs adversely affected cell viability, while improving their peroxidase activity and photothermal conversion efficiency. In vivo analysis demonstrated good biocompatibility of PB NPs, without retention in the organs, but increased size retarded their metabolism. Meanwhile, increased size and positive charge adversely affected hepatic and renal function. Conclusion: This comprehensive exploration of biosafety and biocompatibility provides strong evidences for the use of PB NPs as nanodrug carrier and/or imaging agent.