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Clinical toxicities of nanocarrier systems

Karina R Vega-Villa1, Jody K Takemoto, Jaime A Yáñez

  • 1Pharmacology and Toxicology Graduate Program, College of Pharmacy, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6534, USA.

Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews
|March 4, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Nanocarrier systems present complex toxicity concerns, impacting physiological and molecular processes. Further research and regulatory oversight are crucial for safe nanotechnology development and application.

Area of Science:

  • Nanotechnology
  • Toxicology
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background:

  • Nanocarrier systems are increasingly commercialized, necessitating a thorough understanding of their potential health and environmental impacts.
  • Exposure routes for nanoparticles include dermal, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and lymphatic systems.
  • The toxicity of nanocarriers involves multifaceted physiological, physicochemical, and molecular considerations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the toxicological considerations of nanocarrier systems.
  • To highlight the impact of nanocarriers on xenobiotic properties and drug delivery.
  • To emphasize the need for updated nano-regulation and toxicological oversight.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of nanoparticle exposure routes and toxicological effects.
  • Analysis of nanocarrier interactions with xenobiotics and their influence on pharmaceutical properties.
  • Discussion of current regulatory landscape and future research needs in nanotechnology safety.

Main Results:

  • Nanocarrier systems can induce cytotoxicity and genotoxicity; antigenicity remains poorly understood.
  • Nanocarriers can alter xenobiotic physicochemical properties, affecting stability, solubility, and pharmacokinetics.
  • Solubilization of hydrophobic cancer drugs by nanocarriers may reduce their toxicity.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive toxicological assessment of nanocarriers is essential due to their complex interactions within biological systems.
  • Nanotechnology commercialization requires robust environmental, health, and safety research and societal discussion.
  • Urgent toxicological oversight and evolving nano-regulation are critical for responsible nanotechnology advancement.

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