Cytotoxicity of Postmodified Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐90 (ZIF‐90) Nanocrystals: Correlation between Functionality and Toxicity

Abstract Using a simple method, the aldehyde groups of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐90 (ZIF‐90) nanocrystals were converted into carboxyl, amino, and thiol groups, without affecting the integrity of the framework. Notably, for the first time, correlations between functionality and cytotoxicity are also demonstrated via in vitro cytotoxicity assays. The positive charged aminated‐ZIF‐90 presumably results in either perturbation of cell membrane, more efficient cell uptake, or both. Therefore, the half‐maximal effective (EC 50 ) concentration of aminated‐ZIF‐90 has a higher cytotoxicity of about 30 μg mL −1 .