Chemometrical analysis of proteomics data obtained from three cell types treated with multi-walled carbon nanotubes and TiO2 nanobelts$

Applications of nanomaterials in biomedical, industrial, and consumer goods areas are expanding rapidly because of their unique physicochemical properties. Hazard assessment of nanosubstances is necessary for the protection of human and ecological health. We studied the proteomics patterns of three cell lines: co-culture of Caco-2 and HT29-MTX cells, primary small airway epithelial cells, and THP-1macrophage-like cells. The cells were exposed at 10 μg and 100 μg concentrations for 3 and 24 hours to multi-walled carbon nanotubes and TiO2 nanobelts (TiO2-NB). The data were analysed with the hierarchical clustering method and principal components analysis. In all cases, time of exposure is the most important factor in separation and clustering of proteomics patterns. Furthermore, the sets of proteins, which are specific for long (24 hours) exposure, are identified.