Avaliação de citotoxicidade in vitro de filme nanocompósito a base de subprodutos industriais de laranja em células CHO

Abstract

This article addresses the characterization and cytotoxic evaluation of a nanocomposite film produced from industrial orange residues and cellulose nanocrystals, investigating its potential as an alternative material for active, intelligent, biodegradable, and possibly edible food packaging. It presents an experimental investigative study to determine the physical behavior of the material in aqueous media, its soluble and insoluble fractions, and to assess its cytotoxic safety in an in vitro cell model. The study aims to analyze the structural stability of the film and identify possible toxic effects on CHO-K1 cells. Immersion tests in water, drying in an oven, and lyophilization were used to measure solubility, while Neutral Red absorption and Trypan Blue exclusion assays assessed cell viability. Results indicate that the film contains approximately 71% soluble fraction and 28% insoluble fraction, maintaining stability in water for up to 24 hours if undisturbed. The Trypan Blue assay showed no significant cytotoxicity (p > 0,05), whereas the Neutral Red assay revealed reduced cell viability at concentrations equal to or greater than 3.125 mg/mL (p < 0,03978), with 12.5 mg/mL approaching the 50% lethal inhibition point (LF 50). Therefore, the material is promising for packaging applications but requires further refinement to ensure adequate stability and safety.