Paradox of nobility: how a gold TEM grid disrupts cellular integrity while nickel preserves stability

Abstract

Although gold is regarded as inert, its redox cycling produces reactive oxygen species that compromise cellular integrity. Alternatively, nickel stabilises upon oxidation, limiting charge transfer and oxidative stress. We show that Au-based substrates disrupt organelles, whereas Ni-based substrates preserve endoplasmic reticulum tubules, compelling the reassessment of material biocompatibility in composite systems. © 2025 The Royal Society of Chemistry.