Engineering Two-dimensional Nanomaterials to Enable Structure-Activity Relationship Studies in Nanosafety Research

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Toxicology

Background:

• Emerging two-dimensional engineered nanomaterials (2DNMs) exhibit unique properties influencing biological interactions.
• Graphene-related and inorganic 2DNMs are progressing towards large-scale production and application.

Purpose of the Study:

• Highlight the necessity of structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies for 2DNMs.
• Prioritize 2DNMs based on potential impact and production trajectory.
• Discuss a synthesis platform for "model" 2DNMs to enable toxicological research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and perspective synthesis on 2DNM properties and applications.
• Emphasis on the need for "model" 2DNMs with controlled structures.
• Focus on enabling SAR and toxicological studies.

Main Results:

• 2DNMs possess tunable properties (aspect ratio, electronic, defects, surface chemistry) critical for biological interactions.
• Prioritization of 2DNMs for SAR studies is essential for safe development.
• A platform for producing sterile, size-sorted, structurally precise "model" 2DNMs is proposed.

Conclusions:

• Structure-activity relationship studies are crucial for understanding and predicting 2DNM biological interactions.
• Developing standardized, well-characterized "model" 2DNMs will facilitate toxicological assessments.
• A controlled synthesis approach is vital for the safe and sustainable translation of 2D nanotechnology.