Challenges in assessing nanomaterial toxicology: a personal perspective
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026

In Situ Detection and Single Cell Quantification of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Nuclear Microprobe Analysis
Published on: February 3, 2018
Charles L Geraci1, Vincent Castranova
1Education and Information Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
Abstract:
Nanotechnology exploits the fact that nanoparticles exhibit unique physicochemical properties, which are distinct from fine-sized particles of the same composition. It follows that nanoparticles may also express distinct bioactivity and unique interactions with biological systems. Therefore, it is essential to assess the potential health risks of exposure to nanoparticles to allow development and implementation of prevention measures. Risk assessment requires data concerning hazard and exposure. Several challenges face the field of nanotoxicology in obtaining the necessary data for assessment of the bioactivity of nanoparticles. They include: (1) the vast number of nanoparticle types to be evaluated, (2) the need to use nanoparticle doses and structure sizes in cellular and animal test systems which are relevant to anticipated workplace exposures, and (3) artifactual in vitro results due to absorption of nutrients or assay indicator compounds from the culture media. This 'opinion' reviews the progress made in the field of nanotoxicology in recent years to overcome these challenges.
Related Concept Videos
Toxicity Testing in Animals
Toxic Reactions: Overview
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Types of Toxins
Air pollutants, primarily gases, pose significant threats to respiratory health, leading to conditions like hypoxia, lung cancer, and in extreme cases, death.
Environmental pollutants like...
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions
Toxicokinetics: Overview
Drug toxicity: Idiosyncratic Reactions

