A multiparametric and orthogonal approach indicates low toxicity for zein nanoparticles in a repellent formulation.

The incidence of viruses such as Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya affects human health worldwide, and insect repellents are recommended for individual protection. Formulations incorporating nanotechnology should be carefully assessed for toxicity, particularly regarding the security levels established for human health and the environment. This study evaluates the cytotoxicity of a repellent formulation containing zein nanoparticles (NP) loading geraniol (Ger) and icaridin (Ica) in three cell lines: NIH/3T3, HaCaT, and SIRC.