Therapeutic effect of yttrium oxide nanoparticles for the treatment of fulminant hepatic failure

Aim: To explore the potential therapeutic effect of yttrium oxide nanoparticles (Y 2 O 3 NPs) on fulminant hepatic failure. Materials & methods: RAW264.7 cells and a lipopolysaccharide/D-galactosamine-induced hepatic failure murine model were used to assess the effects of Y 2 O 3 NPs. Results: Y 2 O 3 NPs exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by scavenging cellular reactive oxygen species and dampening reactive oxygen species-mediated NF-κB activation in vitro. A single intraperitoneal administration of Y 2 O 3 NPs (30 mg/kg) enhanced hepatic antioxidant status and reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide/galactosamine-induced mice. Y 2 O 3 NPs also attenuated hepatic NF-κB activation, cell apoptosis and liver injury. Conclusion: Y 2 O 3 NP administration could be used as a novel therapeutic strategy for treating fulminant hepatic failure and oxidative stress-related diseases.