Potential risks of nanomaterials and how to safely handle materials of uncertain toxicity

摘要

This article provides an overview of the main questions in nanotoxicology and discusses the best practices employed by US universities to prevent exposure. The effects and concerns identified for nanoparticles are that nanoparticles may be toxic to cells in vitro and may be more toxic than micron-sized particles in short-term animal tests. Nanoparticles may enter the brain through nasal epithelium olfactory neurons, may penetrate the skin (according to isolated skin assays) and there is also a concern that nanoparticles may translocate to other organs in the body. However, cytotoxicity may be modified or reduced by coatings or substituent groups.