Journal of Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Research Open Access

Nanotoxicology: Assessing the Risks of Engineered Nanomaterials

Hassan Farsi^* Department of Nanoscience, Massachusetts University, USA
^*Correspondence: Hassan Farsi, Department of Nanoscience, Massachusetts University, USA, Email:

Received: 02-Dec-2024, Manuscript No. IPNNR-25-22463; Editor assigned: 04-Dec-2024, Pre QC No. IPNNR-25-22463 (PQ); Reviewed: 18-Dec-2024, QC No. IPNNR-25-22463; Revised: 23-Dec-2024, Manuscript No. IPNNR-25-22463 (R); Published: 30-Dec-2024, DOI: 10.12769/IPNNR.24.8.35

Introduction

Nanotechnology, the manipulation of matter at the nanometer scale (1â??100 nm), has revolutionized various fields, including medicine, electronics, and environmental science. However, with the rapid expansion of nanomaterial applications, concerns regarding their potential toxicity and health risks have emerged. Nanotoxicology, a specialized field within toxicology, investigates the interactions between engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and biological systems to assess potential hazards and safety measures. Nanomaterials exhibit unique physicochemical properties, such as a high surface-area-to-volume ratio, quantum effects, and increased reactivity, which can influence their biological interactions and toxicity. Some key factors affecting nanotoxicity include. Smaller nanoparticles can penetrate biological membranes more easily, leading to potential cytotoxicity. Positively charged nanoparticles tend to interact more with negatively charged cell membranes, increasing cellular uptake and toxicity. Insoluble or slow-degrading nanomaterials may accumulate in tissues, posing long-term health risks. Surface modifications can alter nanoparticle stability, biodistribution, and toxicity. Nanoparticles can induce toxicity through various mechanisms, including.

Description

Many nanomaterials generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative damage, inflammation, and apoptosis. Some nanoparticles can directly interact with DNA, causing mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and potential carcinogenesis. Nanoparticles may activate immune cells, triggering excessive inflammation, which can result in tissue damage and systemic toxicity. Some ENMs can physically damage cellular membranes, leading to altered cell signaling and necrosis. Persistent nanoparticles can accumulate in organs such as the liver, lungs, and brain, potentially leading to chronic health conditions. Nanotoxicology in Medicine and Industry, while nanotechnology holds immense promise in medicine, particularly in drug delivery, imaging, and diagnostics, the potential risks of nanotoxicity must be carefully evaluated. Biomedical nanotoxicology assesses how nanoparticles interact with human tissues and biological fluids. Similarly, industries such as cosmetics, food packaging, and environmental remediation incorporate nanoparticles, necessitating rigorous safety assessments to prevent unintended health risks. Regulatory and Safety Challenges, the complexity of nanomaterial interactions presents challenges for regulatory agencies. Organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) are working toward establishing standardized guidelines for nanotoxicity testing. Current approaches include. Evaluating nanoparticle toxicity in cultured cells under controlled conditions.

Conclusion

Nanotoxicology is an essential field that addresses the safety concerns associated with engineered nanomaterials. Surface modifications coating nanoparticles with biocompatible materials to reduce toxicity. Using eco-friendly synthesis methods to develop less hazardous nanoparticles. Engineering nanoparticles to specifically interact with diseased cells, reducing off-target effects. While nanotechnology offers groundbreaking innovations across multiple industries, a thorough understanding of potential health risks is crucial for sustainable development. Continued research, regulatory oversight, and advancements in nanotoxicity mitigation will ensure the safe integration of nanomaterials into society while maximizing their benefits.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict Of Interest

None.