Abhrak Bhasma (Biotite mica nanoparticles) Induces Cytotoxicity in Adenocarcinoma Human Alveolar Basal Epithelial Cells (A549)

Mica has been proven to have anticancer effects, however, there is not much data available on its efficacy and treating mechanism. In Ayurveda- an Indian system of medicine, a medicine named ‘Abhrak bhasma’, is incinerated mica-based nano-material being used for centuries to treat various respiratory conditions and lungrelated diseases. Nanoparticles are proven to have advantages in cancer treatment. The purpose of this study was to examine ‘ Abhrak Bhasma’ induced cytotoxicity on the A549 cell line. Method - Cytotoxicity was measured by MTT assay on A549 cell line Result - Mica nanoparticles at up to 200µ/mL for 24 hours showed concentration dependant cytotoxic activity. The calculated IC50 value was 168.60µg/mL Conclusion - This is the first report showing that Abhrak bhasma or mica nanoparticles induce cytotoxicity in A459 cells.