a brief review of synthesis methods, biological activities, and cytotoxicity of cerium oxide nanoparticles

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (ceo2-nps, or nanoceria) are among the most unique and promising lanthanide nanomaterials, with unique properties like redox activity, oxygen storage capacity, and free radical scavenging ability. their ability to self-regenerate their surface makes them potential candidates in different fields, especially the biomedical division. the mechanisms by which nanoceria protect against oxidative stress include direct scavenging of radicals by mimicking the catalytic activity of redox enzymes. depending on the surface characteristics and environment, nanoceria can act as a double-edged sword and display oxidant and antioxidant properties. despite their potential for clinical applications, contradictory studies have reported the potential toxicity of ceo2-nps. this review describes the synthesis methods of ceo2-nps, the applications of nanoceria for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, including the most recent studies carried out in vivo and in vitro, and their cytotoxic activity.