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Canup B, Rogers P, Paredes A, Manheng W, Lyn-Cook B, Fahmi T. Investigation of sex-based differences in the immunotoxicity of silver nanoparticles. Nanotoxicology 2024; 18:134-159. [PMID: 38444264 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2024.2323070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The growing application of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in consumer, healthcare, and industrial products has raised concern over potential health implications due to increasing exposure. The evaluation of the immune response to nanomaterials is one of the key criteria to assess their biocompatibility. There are well-recognized sex-based differences in innate and adaptive immune responses. However, there is limited information available using human models. The aim was to investigate the potential sex-based differences in immune functions after exposure to AgNPs using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and plasma from healthy donors. These functions include inflammasome activation, cytokine expression, leukocyte proliferation, chemotaxis, plasma coagulation, and complement activation. AgNPs were characterized by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. Inflammasome activation by AgNPs was measured after 6- and 24-hours incubations. AgNPs-induced inflammasome activation was significantly higher in the females, especially for the 6-hour exposure. No sex-based differences were observed for Ag ions controls. Younger donors exhibited significantly more inflammasome activation than older donors after 24-hours exposure. IL-10 was significantly suppressed in males and females after exposure. AgNPs suppressed leukocyte proliferation similarly in males and females. No chemoattractant effects, no alterations in plasma coagulation, or activation of the complement were observed after AgNPs exposure. In conclusion, the results highlight that there are distinct sex-based differences in inflammasome activation after exposure to AgNPs in human PBMCs. The results highlight the importance of considering sex-based differences in inflammasome activation induced by exposure to AgNPs in any future biocompatibility assessment for products containing AgNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Canup
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, Office of Research, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Paul Rogers
- Division of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, Office of Research, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Angel Paredes
- Nanotechnology Core Facility, Office of Scientific Coordination, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Wimolnut Manheng
- Division of Hematology Oncology Toxicology, Office of Oncologic Diseases, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Beverly Lyn-Cook
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, Office of Research, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
| | - Tariq Fahmi
- Division of Biochemical Toxicology, Office of Research, National Center for Toxicological Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Jefferson, AR, USA
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Rotake D, Darji A, Kale N. Fabrication, calibration, and preliminary testing of microcantilever-based piezoresistive sensor for BioMEMS applications. IET Nanobiotechnol 2021; 14:357-368. [PMID: 32691737 DOI: 10.1049/iet-nbt.2019.0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, the authors demonstrate the fabrication, calibration, and testing of a piezoresistive microcantilever-based sensor for biomedical microelectromechanical system (BioMEMS) application. To use any sensor in BioMEMS application requires surface modification to capture the targeted biomolecules. The surface alteration comprises self-assembled monolayer (SAM) formation on gold (Au)/chromium (Cr) thin films. So, the Au/Cr coating is essential for most of the BioMEMS applications. The fabricated sensor uses the piezoresistive technique to capture the targeted biomolecules with the SAM/Au/Cr layer on top of the silicon dioxide layer. The stiffness (k) of the cantilever-based biosensor is a crucial design parameter for the low-pressure range and also influence the sensitivity of the microelectromechanical system-based sensor. Based on the calibration data, the average stiffness of the fabricated microcantilever with and without Au/Cr thin film is 141.39 and 70.53 mN/m, respectively, which is well below the maximum preferred range of stiffness for BioMEMS applications. The fabricated sensor is ultra-sensitive and selective towards Hg2+ ions in the presence of other heavy metal ions (HMIs) and good enough to achieve a lower limit of detection 0.75 ng/ml (3.73 pM/ml).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Rotake
- Electronics Engineering Department, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India.
| | - Anand Darji
- Electronics Engineering Department, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Nitin Kale
- NanoSniff Technologies Pvt. Ltd, Indian Institute of Technology (IITB) Research Park, Old CSE Building, Powai, Mumbai-76, India
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Laycock A, Wright MD, Römer I, Buckley A, Smith R. Characterisation of particles within and aerosols produced by nano-containing consumer spray products. ATMOSPHERIC ENVIRONMENT: X 2020; 8:100079. [PMID: 33392499 PMCID: PMC7770152 DOI: 10.1016/j.aeaoa.2020.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Nanoparticles have been incorporated into a range of consumer spray products, providing the potential for inadvertent inhalation by users and bystanders. The levels and characteristics of nanoparticle inhalation exposures arising from the use of such products are important inputs to risk assessments and informing dose regimes for in vitro and in vivo studies investigating hazard potentials. To date, only a small number of studies have been undertaken to explore both the aerosols generated from such products and the metal nanoparticles within them. The objective of the current study was to add to the limited data in this field by investigating a range of nano-containing spray products available within the UK. Six products were selected and the nanoparticles characterised using a combination of techniques, including: inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), transmission electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (TEM-EDX) and single particle ICP-MS (spICP-MS). The aerosol produced by these products, when sprayed within a glovebox, was characterised by scanning mobility particle sizer (SMPS) and an aerodynamic particle sizer (APS). A cascade impactor with thirteen stages (NanoMOUDI) was used with one product to generate information on the size specific nanoparticle elemental distribution within the aerosol. The results demonstrated the presence of solid nanoparticles (silver, gold or silica) in each of the products at low concentrations (<13 ppm). TEM and (sp)ICP-MS provided reliable information on nanoparticle size, shape, number and mass, while the light scattering methods were less effective due to the complex matrices of the products and their lack of chemical specificity. The aerosols varied significantly across products, with particle and mass concentrations spanning 5 orders of magnitude (10 - 106 cm-3 and 0.3-7600 μg m-3, respectively). The NanoMOUDI results clearly indicated non-uniform distribution of silver within different aerosol particle size ranges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Laycock
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Matthew D. Wright
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Isabella Römer
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Alison Buckley
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RQ, UK
| | - Rachel Smith
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, Harwell Campus, Didcot, OX11 0RQ, UK
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Rotake DR, Kumar A, Darji AD, Singh J. Highly selective sensor for the detection of Hg 2+ ions using homocysteine functionalised quartz crystal microbalance with cross-linked pyridinedicarboxylic acid. IET Nanobiotechnol 2020; 14:563-573. [PMID: 33010131 PMCID: PMC8676536 DOI: 10.1049/iet-nbt.2020.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This study reports an insightful portable vector network analyser (VNA)-based measurement technique for quick and selective detection of Hg2+ ions in nanomolar (nM) range using homocysteine (HCys)-functionalised quartz-crystal-microbalance (QCM) with cross-linked-pyridinedicarboxylic acid (PDCA). The excessive exposure to mercury can cause damage to many human organs, such as the brain, lungs, stomach, and kidneys, etc. Hence, the authors have proposed a portable experimental platform capable of achieving the detection in 20-30 min with a limit of detection (LOD) 0.1 ppb (0.498 nM) and a better dynamic range (0.498 nM-6.74 mM), which perfectly describes its excellent performance over other reported techniques. The detection time for various laboratory-based techniques is generally 12-24 h. The proposed method used the benefits of thin-film, nanoparticles (NPs), and QCM-based technology to overcome the limitation of NPs-based technique and have LOD of 0.1 ppb (0.1 μg/l) for selective Hg2+ ions detection which is many times less than the World Health Organization limit of 6 μg/l. The main advantage of the proposed QCM-based platform is its portability, excellent repeatability, millilitre sample volume requirement, and easy process flow, which makes it suitable as an early warning system for selective detection of mercury ions without any costly measuring instruments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Ramkrushna Rotake
- Electronics Engineering Department, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ajay Kumar
- Smart Sensors Area, CSIR-Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, Pilani-333031, Rajasthan, India
| | - Anand D Darji
- Electronics Engineering Department, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Jitendra Singh
- Smart Sensors Area, CSIR-Central Electronics Engineering Research Institute, Pilani-333031, Rajasthan, India
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McGee CF. The effects of silver nanoparticles on the microbial nitrogen cycle: a review of the known risks. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:31061-31073. [PMID: 32514926 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The nitrogen cycle is an integral biogeochemical function for maintaining healthy environments. Nitrogen is a key nutrient that must be continuously replenished through recycling mechanisms to sustain ecosystems, disruption to which can result in compromised ecosystem functioning. Certain stages in the microbial conversion of nitrogen compounds are performed by a limited range of micro-organisms making these key functional species in ecosystems. The growing industrial use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) potentially poses significant risks for microbial nitrogen cycling species. AgNPs possess potent antimicrobial properties and are expected to reach a range of natural environments through several routes of exposure. Certain functional nitrogen cycling microbes have been shown to be highly susceptible to AgNP toxicity. The current literature indicates that AgNPs can negatively affect certain nitrogen fixing, nitrifying and denitrifying microbes in vitro. In vivo studies investigating the effect of AgNPs on nitrogen cycling microbial communities and nitrogen transformation rates in soil, sediment and sludge environments have also indicated disruption of these functional processes. This review provides a comprehensive description of the current state of knowledge regarding the toxicity of AgNPs to nitrogen cycling communities. The aim of the review is to highlight the most susceptible stages in the nitrogen cycle and the implications for the affected ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conor Francis McGee
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Cellbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland.
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Rotake D, Darji A, Kale N. Ultrasensitive detection of cadmium ions using a microcantilever-based piezoresistive sensor for groundwater. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 11:1242-1253. [PMID: 32874824 PMCID: PMC7445416 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.11.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper proposes the selective and ultrasensitive detection of Cd(II) ions using a cysteamine-functionalized microcantilever-based sensor with cross-linked ᴅʟ-glyceraldehyde (DL-GC). The detection time for various laboratory-based techniques is generally 12-24 hours. The experiments were performed to create self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of cysteamine cross-linked with ᴅʟ-glyceraldehyde on the microcantilever surface to selectively capture the targeted Cd(II). The proposed portable microfluidic platform is able to achieve the detection in 20-23 min with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.56 ng (2.78 pM), which perfectly describes its excellent performance over other reported techniques. Many researchers used nanoparticle-based sensors for the detection of heavy metal ions, but daily increasing usage and commercialization of nanoparticles are rapidly expanding their deleterious effect on human health and the environment. The proposed technique uses a blend of thin-film and microcantilever (micro-electromechanical systems) technology, which mitigate the disadvantages of the nanoparticle approaches, for the selective detection of Cd(II) with a LOD below the WHO limit of 3 μg/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Rotake
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Anand Darji
- Department of Electronics Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology, Surat, Gujarat, India
| | - Nitin Kale
- The Chief Technology Officer, NanoSniff Technologies Pvt. Ltd., F-14, 1st Floor, IITB Research Park, Old CSE Building, IIT Bombay, Powai, Mumbai – 76, India
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7
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Jalink K, Cheng SSY, Ben Ireland S, Louise Meunier MAF. Silver nanoparticle uptake in the human lung assessed through in-vitro and in-silico methods. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 259:113880. [PMID: 32040986 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are commonly used in medical, cosmetics, clothing, and industrial applications for their antibacterial and catalytic properties. As AgNP become more prevalent, the doses to which humans are exposed may increase and pose health risks, particularly through incidental inhalation. This exposure was evaluated through in-vitro methods simulating lung fluids and lung epithelium, and through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods of AgNP transport. A high-dose scenario simulated a short-term inhalation of 10 μg AgNP/m3, based on an exposure limit recommended by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health for the case of a health-care worker who handles AgNP-infused wound dressings, and regularly wears AgNP-imbedded clothing. Bioaccessibility tests were followed by a Parallel Artificial Membrane Permeability Assay (PAMPA) and supported by CFD models of the lung alveoli, membrane, pores, and blood capillaries. Results indicate that such exposure produces an average and maximum AgNP flux of approximately 4.7 × 10-21 and 6.5 × 10-19 mol m-2·s-1 through lung tissue, respectively, yielding a blood-silver accumulation of 0.46-64 mg per year, which may exceed the lowest adverse effect level of 25 mg for an adult male. Results from in-silico simulations were consistent with values estimated in vitro (within an order of magnitude), which suggest that CFD models may be used effectively to predict silver exposure from inhaled AgNP. Although the average short-term exposure concentrations are 3 orders of magnitude smaller than the reported threshold for mammalian cytotoxicity effects (observed at 5000 ppb), cumulative effects resulting from constant exposure to AgNP may pose risks to human health in the long-term, with predicted bioaccumulation reaching potential toxic effects after only five months of exposure, based on maximum flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Jalink
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, 19 Division Street Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Sammi Sham Yin Cheng
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, 19 Division Street Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - S Ben Ireland
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, 19 Division Street Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - M A F Louise Meunier
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Queen's University, 19 Division Street Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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8
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Nallanthighal S, Tierney L, Cady NC, Murray TM, Chittur SV, Reliene R. Surface coatings alter transcriptional responses to silver nanoparticles following oral exposure. NANOIMPACT 2020; 17:100205. [PMID: 32864508 PMCID: PMC7453744 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2019.100205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used in food packaging materials, dental care products and other consumer goods and can result in oral exposure. To determine whether AgNP coatings modulate transcriptional responses to AgNP exposure, we exposed mice orally to 20 nm citrate (cit)-coated AgNPs (cit-AgNPs) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-coated AgNPs (PVP-AgNPs) at a 4 mg/kg dose for 7 consecutive days and analyzed changes in the expression of protein-coding genes and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a new class of regulatory RNAs, in the liver. We identified unique and common expression signatures of protein-coding and lncRNA genes, altered biological processes and signaling pathways, and coding-non-coding gene interactions for cit-AgNPs and PVP-AgNPs. Commonly regulated genes comprised only about 10 and 20 percent of all differentially expressed genes in PVP-AgNP and cit-AgNP exposed mice, respectively. Commonly regulated biological processes included glutathione metabolic process and cellular oxidant detoxification. Commonly regulated pathways included Keap-Nrf2, PPAR, MAPK and IL-6 signaling pathways. The coding-non-coding gene co-expression analysis revealed that protein-coding genes were co-expressed with a variable number of lncRNAs ranging from one to twenty three and may share functional roles with the protein-coding genes. PVP-AgNP exposure induced a more robust transcriptional response than cit-AgNP exposure characterized by more than two-fold higher number of differentially expressed both protein- coding and lncRNA genes. Our data demonstrate that the surface coating strongly modulates the spectrum and the number of differentially expressed genes after oral AgNP exposure. On the other hand, our data suggest that AgNP exposure can alter drug and chemical sensitivity, metabolic homeostasis and cancer risk irrespective of the coating type, warranting further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameera Nallanthighal
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Lukas Tierney
- Colleges of Nanoscale Sciences and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Nathaniel C. Cady
- Colleges of Nanoscale Sciences and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Thomas M. Murray
- Colleges of Nanoscale Sciences and Engineering, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Sridar V. Chittur
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Ramune Reliene
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA
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9
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Nicholas TP, Kavanagh TJ, Faustman EM, Altemeier WA. The Effects of Gene × Environment Interactions on Silver Nanoparticle Toxicity in the Respiratory System. Chem Res Toxicol 2019; 32:952-968. [PMID: 31124663 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.8b00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are used in multiple applications but primarily in the manufacturing of antimicrobial products. AgNP toxicity in the respiratory system is well characterized, but few in vitro or in vivo studies have evaluated the effects of interactions between host genetic and acquired factors or gene × environment interactions (G × E) on AgNP toxicity in the respiratory system. The primary goal of this article is to review host genetic and acquired factors identified across in vitro and in vivo studies and prioritize those necessary for defining exposure limits to protect all populations. The impact of these exposures and the work being done to address the current limited protections are also discussed. Future research on G × E effects on AgNP toxicity is warranted and will assist with informing regulatory or recommended exposure limits that enforce special protections for all populations to AgNP exposures in occupational settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler P Nicholas
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington 98109 , United States
| | - Terrance J Kavanagh
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington 98109 , United States
| | - Elaine M Faustman
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington 98109 , United States
| | - William A Altemeier
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine , University of Washington , Seattle , Washington 98109 , United States
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10
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Calderón L, Yang L, Lee K, Mainelis G. Characterization of Airborne Particle Release from Nanotechnology-enabled Clothing Products. JOURNAL OF NANOPARTICLE RESEARCH : AN INTERDISCIPLINARY FORUM FOR NANOSCALE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2018; 20:330. [PMID: 32792850 PMCID: PMC7423247 DOI: 10.1007/s11051-018-4435-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated airborne particle release from seventeen nanotechnology-enabled clothing items, including eleven items that were advertised as containing silver nanoparticles. Clothing wear was simulated using an abrader, where the rotating clothing samples came in contact with felt abrader wheels, and size distribution and concentration of the released particles were measured using a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer and Aerodynamic Particle Sizer. Through the use of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, silver was detected in all eleven products advertised as containing silver, and its concentration varied from approximately 1 ppm to ~1.5×105 ppm depending on the product. Nano-sized particles, as well as larger agglomerates, were released from all investigated products with concentrations as high as ~2×104 particles/cm3; the concentration and size distribution varied substantially from product to product, and silver-based clothing tended to release smaller and higher number concentrations of particles than products where fibers were formulated using nanotechnology. Examination of the released particles using TEM confirmed the presence of manufactured nanoparticles; airborne sample analysis using SEM/EDS showed that the released particles contained Ag as well as other metals. This study can be valuable for the risk assessment of nanotechnology-based consumer goods, especially clothing containing silver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Calderón
- Rutgers University, Department of Environmental Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Letao Yang
- Rutgers University, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Kibum Lee
- Rutgers University, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Gediminas Mainelis
- Rutgers University, Department of Environmental Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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11
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Lasat MM, Chung KF, Lead J, McGrath S, Owen RJ, Rocks S, Unrine J, Zhang J. Advancing the Understanding of Environmental Transformations, Bioavailability and Effects of Nanomaterials, an International US Environmental Protection Agency-UK Environmental Nanoscience Initiative Joint Program. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 9:385-404. [PMID: 29910967 PMCID: PMC5998674 DOI: 10.4236/jep.2018.94025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Nanotechnology has significant economic, health, and environmental benefits, including renewable energy and innovative environmental solutions. Manufactured nanoparticles have been incorporated into new materials and products because of their novel or enhanced properties. These very same properties also have prompted concerns about the potential environmental and human health hazard and risk posed by the manufactured nanomaterials. Appropriate risk management responses require the development of models capable of predicting the environmental and human health effects of the nanomaterials. Development of predictive models has been hampered by a lack of information concerning the environmental fate, behavior and effects of manufactured nanoparticles. The United Kingdom (UK) Environmental Nanoscience Initiative and the United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency have developed an international research program to enhance the knowledgebase and develop risk-predicting models for manufactured nanoparticles. Here we report selected highlights of the program as it sought to maximize the complementary strengths of the transatlantic scientific communities by funding three integrated US-UK consortia to investigate the transformation of these nanoparticles in terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric environment. Research results demonstrate there is a functional relationship between the physicochemical properties of environmentally transformed nanomaterials and their effects and that this relationship is amenable to modeling. In addition, the joint transatlantic program has allowed the leveraging of additional funding, promoting transboundary scientific collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitch M Lasat
- Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington DC, USA
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Jamie Lead
- Centre for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk, University of South Carolina, Columbia, USA.,University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | | | - Sophie Rocks
- Institute for Resilient Futures, Cranfield University, Cranfield, UK
| | - Jason Unrine
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, USA
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12
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Botelho D, Leo BF, Massa C, Sarkar S, Tetley T, Chung KF, Chen S, Ryan MP, Porter A, Atochina-Vasserman EN, Zhang J, Schwander S, Gow AJ. Exposure to Silver Nanospheres Leads to Altered Respiratory Mechanics and Delayed Immune Response in an in Vivo Murine Model. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:213. [PMID: 29632485 PMCID: PMC5879457 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we examine the organ level toxicology of both carbon black (CB) and silver nanoparticles (AgNP). We aim to determine metal-specific effects to respiratory function, inflammation and potential interactions with lung lining fluid (LLF). C57Bl6/J male mice were intratracheally instilled with saline (control), low (0.05 μg/g) or high (0.5 μg/g) doses of either AgNP or CB 15 nm nanospheres. Lung histology, cytology, surfactant composition and function, inflammatory gene expression, and pulmonary function were measured at 1, 3, and 7 days post-exposure. Acutely, high dose CB resulted in an inflammatory response, increased neutrophilia and cytokine production, without alteration in surfactant composition or respiratory mechanics. Low dose CB had no effect. Neither low nor high dose AgNPs resulted in an acute inflammatory response, but there was an increase in work of breathing. Three days post-exposure with CB, a persistent neutrophilia was noted. High dose AgNP resulted in an elevated number of macrophages and invasion of lymphocytes. Additionally, AgNP treated mice displayed increased expression of IL1B, IL6, CCL2, and IL10. However, there were no significant changes in respiratory mechanics. At day 7, inflammation had resolved in AgNP-treated mice, but tissue stiffness and resistance were significantly decreased, which was accompanied by an increase in surfactant protein D (SP-D) content. These data demonstrate that the presence of metal alters the response of the lung to nanoparticle exposure. AgNP-surfactant interactions may alter respiratory function and result in a delayed immune response, potentially due to modified airway epithelial cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Botelho
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Bey F Leo
- Department of Materials and London Centre for Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Nanotechnology and Catalysis Research Center, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Christopher Massa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Srijata Sarkar
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Terry Tetley
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kian F Chung
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shu Chen
- Department of Materials and London Centre for Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary P Ryan
- Department of Materials and London Centre for Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandra Porter
- Department of Materials and London Centre for Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elena N Atochina-Vasserman
- RASA Center in Tomsk, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk, Russia.,RASA Center, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Stephan Schwander
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Andrew J Gow
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States.,RASA Center in Tomsk, Tomsk Polytechnic University, Tomsk, Russia
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13
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Fröhlich E. Hemocompatibility of inhaled environmental nanoparticles: Potential use of in vitro testing. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2017; 336:158-167. [PMID: 28494303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2017.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Hemocompatibility testing is an important part in the evaluation of nano-based medicines. However, it is not systematically used for the assessment of environmental particles since they do not come in contact with blood immediately. Studies on human exposure to air-borne particles and pulmonary exposure of rodents have reported alterations in blood physiology. It is not clear, whether these effects are majorly caused by tissue inflammation or translocated particles in blood. This review addresses the question, if in vitro hemocompatibility testing could help in the risk evaluation of inhaled particles. Particle blood concentrations were estimated based on exposure levels, ventilation volume, deposition rate, lung surface area, and permeability of the alveolar epithelium to particles. The categories of hemocompatibility, thrombosis, coagulation, platelets, hematology, and immunology, were introduced. Also, concentrations of ultrafine particles, silver nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes that caused adverse effects in human blood samples were compared to the estimated concentrations of translocated particles. The comparison suggested that, it is unlikely for translocated nanoparticles to be the sole cause of adverse blood effects. Nevertheless, the testing of specific hemocompatibility parameters (hemolysis and clotting) in healthy blood might help to compare biological effect of inhaled particles containing different amounts of contamination. Testing of samples from healthy and diseased persons might help to identify pathological dispositions that increase the possibility of adverse reaction of nanoparticles in blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonore Fröhlich
- Medical University of Graz, Center for Medical Research, Stiftingtalstr. 24, A-8010 Graz, Austria.
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14
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Boyes WK, Thornton BLM, Al-Abed SR, Andersen CP, Bouchard DC, Burgess RM, Hubal EAC, Ho KT, Hughes MF, Kitchin K, Reichman JR, Rogers KR, Ross JA, Rygiewicz PT, Scheckel KG, Thai SF, Zepp RG, Zucker RM. A comprehensive framework for evaluating the environmental health and safety implications of engineered nanomaterials. Crit Rev Toxicol 2017; 47:767-810. [DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2017.1328400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- William K. Boyes
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Brittany Lila M. Thornton
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Souhail R. Al-Abed
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Christian P. Andersen
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Dermont C. Bouchard
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Robert M. Burgess
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Narragansett, RI, USA
| | - Elaine A. Cohen Hubal
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kay T. Ho
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Narragansett, RI, USA
| | - Michael F. Hughes
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kirk Kitchin
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Jay R. Reichman
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Kim R. Rogers
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Jeffrey A. Ross
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Paul T. Rygiewicz
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Kirk G. Scheckel
- National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sheau-Fung Thai
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Richard G. Zepp
- National Exposure Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Robert M. Zucker
- National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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15
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Pourzahedi L, Vance M, Eckelman MJ. Life Cycle Assessment and Release Studies for 15 Nanosilver-Enabled Consumer Products: Investigating Hotspots and Patterns of Contribution. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:7148-7158. [PMID: 28537069 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b05923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Increasing use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in consumer products as antimicrobial agents has prompted extensive research toward the evaluation of their potential release to the environment and subsequent ecotoxicity to aquatic organisms. It has also been shown that AgNPs can pose significant burdens to the environment from life cycle emissions associated with their production, but these impacts must be considered in the context of actual products that contain nanosilver. Here, a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment for the production of 15 different AgNP-enabled consumer products was performed, coupled with release studies of those same products, thus providing a consistent analytical platform for investigation of potential nanosilver impacts across a range of product types and concentrations. Environmental burdens were assessed over multiple impact categories defined by the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Tool for the Reduction and Assessment of Chemical and Other Environmental Impacts (TRACI 2.1) method. Depending on the product composition and silver loading, the contribution of AgNP synthesis to the overall impacts was seen to vary over a wide range from 1% to 99%. Release studies found that solid polymeric samples lost more silver during wash compared to fibrous materials. Estimates of direct ecotoxicity impacts of AgNP releases from those products with the highest leaching rates resulted in lower impact levels compared to cradle-to-gate ecotoxicity from production for those products. Considering both cradle-to-gate production impacts and nanoparticle release studies, in conjunction with estimates of life cycle environmental and health benefits of nanoparticle incorporation, can inform sustainable nanoenabled product design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Pourzahedi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Marina Vance
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, Virginia Tech , Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado , Boulder, Colorado 80309, United States
| | - Matthew J Eckelman
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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16
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Devasahayam S. Overview of an internationally integrated nanotechnology governance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF METROLOGY AND QUALITY ENGINEERING 2017. [DOI: 10.1051/ijmqe/2017002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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17
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Alqahtani S, Promtong P, Oliver AW, He XT, Walker TD, Povey A, Hampson L, Hampson IN. Silver nanoparticles exhibit size-dependent differential toxicity and induce expression of syncytin-1 in FA-AML1 and MOLT-4 leukaemia cell lines. Mutagenesis 2016; 31:695-702. [PMID: 27576335 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/gew043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) sequences make up ~8% of the human genome and increased expression of some HERV proteins has been observed in various pathologies including leukaemia and multiple sclerosis. However, little is known about the function of these HERV proteins or environmental factors which regulate their expression. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are used very extensively as antimicrobials and antivirals in numerous consumer products although their effect on the expression of HERV gene products is unknown. Cell proliferation and cell toxicity assays were carried out on human acute T lymphoblastic leukaemia (MOLT-4) and Fanconi anaemia associated acute myeloid leukaemia (FA-AML1) cells treated with two different sizes of AgNPs (7nm and 50nm diameter). Reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were then used to the assess expression of HERV-W syncytin-1 mRNA and protein in these cells. FA-AML1 cells were more sensitive overall than MOLT-4 to treatment with the smaller 7nm sized AgNp's being the most toxic in these cells. MOLT-4 cell were more resistant and showed no evidence of differential toxicity to the different sized particles. Syncytin-1 mRNA and protein were induced by both 7 and 50nm AgNPs in both cell types yet with different kinetics. In summary, the observation that AgNPs induce expression of syncytin-1 in FA-AML1 and MOLT-4 cells at doses as little as 5 µg/ml is grounds for concern since this protein is up-regulated in both malignant and neurodegenerative diseases. Considering the widespread use of AgNPs in the environment it is clear that their ability to induce syncytin-1 should be investigated further in other cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pawika Promtong
- Molecular Epidemiology, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | | | | | | | - Andrew Povey
- Molecular Epidemiology, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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18
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Topuz E, van Gestel CAM. An approach for environmental risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and fuzzy inference rules. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 92-93:334-347. [PMID: 27131016 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The usage of Engineered Nanoparticles (ENPs) in consumer products is relatively new and there is a need to conduct environmental risk assessment (ERA) to evaluate their impacts on the environment. However, alternative approaches are required for ERA of ENPs because of the huge gap in data and knowledge compared to conventional pollutants and their unique properties that make it difficult to apply existing approaches. This study aims to propose an ERA approach for ENPs by integrating Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and fuzzy inference models which provide a systematic evaluation of risk factors and reducing uncertainty about the data and information, respectively. Risk is assumed to be the combination of occurrence likelihood, exposure potential and toxic effects in the environment. A hierarchy was established to evaluate the sub factors of these components. Evaluation was made with fuzzy numbers to reduce uncertainty and incorporate the expert judgements. Overall score of each component was combined with fuzzy inference rules by using expert judgements. Proposed approach reports the risk class and its membership degree such as Minor (0.7). Therefore, results are precise and helpful to determine the risk management strategies. Moreover, priority weights calculated by comparing the risk factors based on their importance for the risk enable users to understand which factor is effective on the risk. Proposed approach was applied for Ag (two nanoparticles with different coating) and TiO2 nanoparticles for different case studies. Results verified the proposed benefits of the approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emel Topuz
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, Istanbul 34469, Turkey
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, Istanbul 34469, Turkey
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19
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Mukherjee D, Porter A, Ryan M, Schwander S, Chung KF, Tetley T, Zhang J, Georgopoulos P. Modeling In Vivo Interactions of Engineered Nanoparticles in the Pulmonary Alveolar Lining Fluid. NANOMATERIALS 2015; 5:1223-1249. [PMID: 26240755 PMCID: PMC4521411 DOI: 10.3390/nano5031223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Increasing use of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) in consumer products may result in widespread human inhalation exposures. Due to their high surface area per unit mass, inhaled ENMs interact with multiple components of the pulmonary system, and these interactions affect their ultimate fate in the body. Modeling of ENM transport and clearance in vivo has traditionally treated tissues as well-mixed compartments, without consideration of nanoscale interaction and transformation mechanisms. ENM agglomeration, dissolution and transport, along with adsorption of biomolecules, such as surfactant lipids and proteins, cause irreversible changes to ENM morphology and surface properties. The model presented in this article quantifies ENM transformation and transport in the alveolar air to liquid interface and estimates eventual alveolar cell dosimetry. This formulation brings together established concepts from colloidal and surface science, physics, and biochemistry to provide a stochastic framework capable of capturing essential in vivo processes in the pulmonary alveolar lining layer. The model has been implemented for in vitro solutions with parameters estimated from relevant published in vitro measurements and has been extended here to in vivo systems simulating human inhalation exposures. Applications are presented for four different ENMs, and relevant kinetic rates are estimated, demonstrating an approach for improving human in vivo pulmonary dosimetry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwaipayan Mukherjee
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; E-Mail:
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Rutgers University, 98 Brett Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Alexandra Porter
- Department of Materials and London Centre of Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK; E-Mails: (A.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Mary Ryan
- Department of Materials and London Centre of Nanotechnology, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK; E-Mails: (A.P.); (M.R.)
| | - Stephan Schwander
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, 683 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London SW3 6LY, UK; E-Mails: (K.F.C.); (T.T.)
| | - Teresa Tetley
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Dovehouse Street, London SW3 6LY, UK; E-Mails: (K.F.C.); (T.T.)
| | - Junfeng Zhang
- Nicholas School of the Environment and Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Panos Georgopoulos
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; E-Mail:
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering, Rutgers University, 98 Brett Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-848-445-0159
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20
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Vance ME, Kuiken T, Vejerano EP, McGinnis SP, Hochella MF, Rejeski D, Hull MS. Nanotechnology in the real world: Redeveloping the nanomaterial consumer products inventory. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2015; 6:1769-80. [PMID: 26425429 PMCID: PMC4578396 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.6.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 959] [Impact Index Per Article: 106.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
To document the marketing and distribution of nano-enabled products into the commercial marketplace, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies created the Nanotechnology Consumer Products Inventory (CPI) in 2005. The objective of this present work is to redevelop the CPI by leading a research effort to increase the usefulness and reliability of this inventory. We created eight new descriptors for consumer products, including information pertaining to the nanomaterials contained in each product. The project was motivated by the recognition that a diverse group of stakeholders from academia, industry, and state/federal government had become highly dependent on the inventory as an important resource and bellweather of the pervasiveness of nanotechnology in society. We interviewed 68 nanotechnology experts to assess key information needs. Their answers guided inventory modifications by providing a clear conceptual framework best suited for user expectations. The revised inventory was released in October 2013. It currently lists 1814 consumer products from 622 companies in 32 countries. The Health and Fitness category contains the most products (762, or 42% of the total). Silver is the most frequently used nanomaterial (435 products, or 24%); however, 49% of the products (889) included in the CPI do not provide the composition of the nanomaterial used in them. About 29% of the CPI (528 products) contain nanomaterials suspended in a variety of liquid media and dermal contact is the most likely exposure scenario from their use. The majority (1288 products, or 71%) of the products do not present enough supporting information to corroborate the claim that nanomaterials are used. The modified CPI has enabled crowdsourcing capabilities, which allow users to suggest edits to any entry and permits researchers to upload new findings ranging from human and environmental exposure data to complete life cycle assessments. There are inherent limitations to this type of database, but these modifications to the inventory addressed the majority of criticisms raised in published literature and in surveys of nanotechnology stakeholders and experts. The development of standardized methods and metrics for nanomaterial characterization and labelling in consumer products can lead to greater understanding between the key stakeholders in nanotechnology, especially consumers, researchers, regulators, and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina E Vance
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, Virginia Tech, 410 Kelly Hall (0194), 235 Stanger St., Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Todd Kuiken
- Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, One Woodrow Wilson Plaza - 1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States
| | - Eric P Vejerano
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, 418 Durham Hall (0246), Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Sean P McGinnis
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech, Holden Hall (0237), Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - Michael F Hochella
- Department of Geosciences, Virginia Tech, 4044 Derring Hall (0420), Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
| | - David Rejeski
- Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, One Woodrow Wilson Plaza - 1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States
| | - Matthew S Hull
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Science, Virginia Tech, 410 Kelly Hall (0194), 235 Stanger St., Blacksburg, VA 24061, United States
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