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Toxicity of nanomaterials
Shahriar Sharifi1, Shahed Behzadi, Sophie Laurent
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands.
Chemical Society Reviews
|December 16, 2011
Summary
Nanomaterials are increasingly used in consumer products, but long-term health effects and safe exposure limits are not well understood. Further research is crucial to assess nanoparticle toxicity and ensure human and environmental safety.
Area of Science:
- Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
- Toxicology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Nanoscience has advanced, leading to widespread use of nanomaterials in electronics, sports equipment, sunscreens, and biomedical applications.
- Concerns are rising regarding the long-term health consequences of nanoparticles (NPs), prompting regulatory bodies to question the safety of materials like carbon-based nanotubes.
- The increasing integration of nanomaterials into consumer products necessitates a thorough understanding of their potential health impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of knowledge on nanomaterial toxicology.
- To highlight the need for comprehensive studies on the health effects of nanoparticles.
- To discuss methodologies for evaluating nanoparticle toxicity and potential risks.
Main Methods:
- Critical review of existing literature on nanomaterial biophysicochemical properties.
- Analysis of available toxicology data for various nanomaterials.
- Examination of current methodologies for assessing nanoparticle toxicity.
Main Results:
- Limited studies exist on the long-term health consequences of nanoparticles.
- Regulatory agencies are beginning to scrutinize the safety of nanomaterials, comparing them to known carcinogens.
- There is a critical need to protect workers and consumers from potential inhalation of toxic NPs.
Conclusions:
- Protecting workers and end-users from potentially toxic NPs is imperative.
- Strategies for sequestering NPs in products to prevent atmospheric release are suggested.
- Further research into non-inhalation routes of NP absorption and the body's ability to eliminate nanomaterials is essential.
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