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Toxicity of engineered nanomaterials: a physicochemical perspective
Ramakrishna Podila1, Jared M Brown
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA.
Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology
|November 7, 2012
Summary
Engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) pose risks due to their complex properties. This review links ENM size, shape, and stability to altered biological responses and cytotoxicity.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Toxicology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- The global market for nanomaterial-based products is substantial, reaching billions annually.
- Extensive use of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) raises environmental and biological safety concerns.
- ENM properties like morphology, size, and stability complicate predicting their biological impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on the relationship between physicochemical properties and cytotoxicity of ENMs.
- To identify key ENM characteristics that influence biological responses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating ENM cytotoxicity.
- Analysis of correlations between ENM physicochemical properties and observed biological effects.
Main Results:
- ENM size, shape, defect density, physicochemical stability, and surface modification significantly impact biological responses.
- Variations in preparation methods, impurities, and defects can lead to diverse toxicological outcomes.
- A direct correlation between specific physicochemical properties and cytotoxicity is challenging due to complexity.
Conclusions:
- Physicochemical properties are critical determinants of ENM biological response and cytotoxicity.
- Understanding these relationships is essential for safe ENM development and application.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions between ENMs and biological systems.
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