Nanomaterial toxicity and risk assessment integrating functionalization strategies advanced in vitro models and...

Nanomaterials have gained huge importance in various fields, such as healthcare, electronics, and environmental management, due to their unique characteristics. However, the potent toxicity is a big concern regarding their utility. Toxicological assessment becomes an important step to ensure their safe applications. The significant hazards of nanomaterials have risen from their shape, size, charge, and makeup, which leads to genetic damage, cellular uptake, and internalization with oxidative stress (OS) and harm to specific organs. This review focuses on toxicity profiles and their possible interactions with cellular organelles leading to apoptosis (Apop) and long-term bioaccumulation.Size, surface area, and dissolving capability may affect the toxicity of nanomaterials. Different measures such as encapsulation methods, increasing surface area, and enhancing biodegradability are being considered to reduce toxicity from innovative nanomaterials. Knowledge gaps encompass uneven toxicity evaluations, inadequate chronic exposure data, and insufficient attention to individualized reactions. The integration of standardized models, computational predictions, mechanistic investigations, and regulatory compliance is crucial for the safer design of nanomaterials. The review highlights toxicological issues caused by nanomaterials such as nanoformulation, quantum dots, and nanoparticles. It also directs future strategies in nanotoxicology, highlighting increasing assessment models, strategies, and collaborative research efforts. Bringing together regulatory and research efforts in the context of nanomaterials is important for ensuring the safe application of nanomaterials across pharmacy and other industries. This review offers a comprehensive viewpoint connecting physicochemical factors, sophisticated in vitro models, and developing regulatory frameworks, emphasizing emerging trends including microphysiological systems and animal-free risk assessment methodologies.