1. Subject presentation: (BT 429)
submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the Degree
of
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY
in
SCIENCES
by
MADONA MATHEW
(PHD/BE/10054/2023)
Department of Bioengineering and Biotechnology
Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra
Ranchi - 835215, Jharkhand
Nanotoxicity: NMs and NCs
2. Introduction
• Nanotoxicity refers to the potential adverse effects of
nanomaterials on human health and the environment.
• As nanotechnology advances, understanding nanotoxicity
is crucial for safe development and use of nanomaterials.
• Nanoparticles can exhibit unique physicochemical
properties that can lead to increased toxicity compared to
their larger counterparts.
• Factors such as size, shape, surface charge, and surface
chemistry can influence the toxicity of nanomaterials.
• Studying nanotoxicity involves evaluating the
bioavailability, biokinetics, and biological effects of
nanomaterials.
3. What are (NMs) & (NCs)?
Nanomaterials (NMs)
NMs are materials with at least
one dimension in the nanoscale
range (1-100 nanometers). They
exhibit unique chemical,
physical, and biological
properties due to their small
size and high surface area.
Nanocomposites (NCs)
NCs are materials composed of two
or more distinct components, where
at least one component is in the
nanoscale. NCs combine the
properties of different materials to
create advanced functional
materials.
Diverse Applications
NMs and NCs have a wide range of applications, from electronics and
energy storage to biomedical and environmental technologies, due to their
4. Unique Properties of NMs and NCs
Nanomaterials (NMs) and Nanocomposites (NCs) exhibit
distinct physical, chemical, and biological properties
compared to their bulk counterparts.
These include increased surface area-to-volume ratio,
enhanced reactivity, and unique optical, electrical, and
magnetic behaviors.
These unique features are a result of the quantum
confinement effects and high surface-to-volume ratios at the
nanoscale.
5. Potential Exposure Routes of
NMs and NCs
• Nanomaterials (NMs) and Nanocomposites (NCs) can
potentially enter the human body through various routes,
including inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption.
• Nanoparticles may penetrate deep into the lungs, be
transported to organs, and interact with cells and
biomolecules.
• Occupational settings, consumer products, and environmental
contamination can all lead to inadvertent exposure to NMs
and NCs.
• Understanding these exposure pathways is crucial for
assessing the risks and developing appropriate safety
measures.
6. Mechanisms of Nano Toxicity
1 Oxidative Stress
Nanomaterials can induce the generation of reactive oxygen species,
leading to oxidative stress and potential cellular damage.
2 Inflammation
Exposure to certain nanomaterials can trigger inflammatory responses,
causing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and recruitment of
immune cells.
3 Genotoxicity
Some nanomaterials have the ability to interact with DNA, potentially
causing genetic alterations and increased risk of mutations.
7. Factors Influencing Nano Toxicity
Physicochemi
cal Properties
The size, shape,
surface chemistry,
and agglomeration
state of
nanomaterials can
significantly impact
their toxicity.
Exposure
Dose
The concentration
and duration of
exposure to
nanomaterials are
critical factors in
determining the
degree of toxicity.
Biological
Interactions
Nanomaterials can
interact with
biomolecules,
cells, and tissues,
leading to complex
biological
responses that
influence toxicity.
Environmenta
l Conditions
Factors like pH,
temperature, and
the presence of
other chemicals
can alter the
behavior and
toxicity of
nanomaterials.
8. Biological Responses to NMs and NCs
Respiratory
Impacts
Nanomaterials can
penetrate deep into
the lungs, leading to
inflammation,
oxidative stress, and
potential long-term
respiratory issues.
Cellular
Toxicity
Nanocomposites can
disrupt normal cell
processes, causing DNA
damage, cell death, and
other adverse cellular-
level responses.
Bioaccumulation
Nanomaterials may
accumulate in
organs and tissues
over time,
potentially leading to
long-term health
consequences.
Immune System
Impacts
Nanomaterials can trigger
immune system reactions,
including inflammation and
the activation of immune
cells, which may have
adverse health effects.
9. Challenges in Nano Toxicity Assessment
1
Complexity
Diverse properties and behaviors of NMs and NCs
2
Heterogeneity
Variation in size, shape, and surface chemistry
3
Interaction Dynamics
NMs and NCs interact with biological systems
4
Reliable Testing
Lack of standardized testing protocols
3
2
1
10. Regulatory Frameworks and
Safety Considerations
Regulatory Frameworks
Developing guidelines and standards for the safe handling, use, and
disposal of NMs/NCs.
Risk Assessment
Evaluating the potential hazards and exposure risks associated with
NMs/NCs.
Safety Protocols
Implementing appropriate engineering controls, personal protective
equipment, and waste management practices.
11. Future Directions and Research Needs
$100M
Funding
25
Years
100+
Research Teams
Needed for Nano Research
• Future nano toxicity research must adopt a multidisciplinary
approach, bringing together experts from materials science,
nanotechnology, biology, medicine, and regulatory affairs.
• Innovative experimental models, including advanced in vitro
systems and organ-on-a-chip platforms, will be instrumental in
elucidating the complex pathways of nano toxicity.
