Safety of Nanoparticles
The discovery of nanoparticles 20 years ago has revolutionized a number of industries. Nano systems are busy at work seeking out cancerous tumors, providing anti-aging effects in creams, resisting stains on clothing, keeping bacteria off countertops and leading toward energy independence. New nanotechnology applications are being discovered every day, but regulation and oversight have not kept pace with this new technology. In fact, only a fraction of the products using nano materials inform consumers of the fact, which is why many consumer advocates really have a problem.
“Products created using nanotechnology have entered the food chain,” says Ian Illuminato, a health and environment lobbyist. He led a 2005 study that showed the dangers of zinc oxide nanoparticles in human lung cells — even in small doses. In other tests, silver particles killed brain cells in rats. “They are more chemically reactive and more bioactive,” Illuminato explains, especially when you consider that a nano particle is so small it can penetrate the nucleus of a cell. He adds, “Products should be at least labeled so consumers can choose whether they want to be part of this experiment.”
Despite rising worries over potential risks, 2009 has been a big year for the nano particle. MIT researchers discovered that nanoparticles carrying killer genes can effectively suppress ovarian tumor growth in mice. Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University researchers found success in animal trials of using a nano particle cream to treat erectile dysfunction, without all the usual side effects. University of Michigan studies confirm that a nanomaterial can be used to administer morphine on the battlefield, without dangerous side effects. Scientists at the Sharif University of Technology in Iran see promise in using coatings made of dioxide titanium nano materials to bolster the strength of steel and other building materials. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, silver nanoparticles are helping archaeologists examine ancient, diluted dyes by absorbing and enhancing the dye molecules, while also preventing fluorescent substances from reflecting too much light when a laser is shined on them. All these exciting breakthroughs are evidence that we can’t just walk away from this new science.
Hopefully, the future of nanoparticles involves more revolutionary breakthroughs and ways of ensuring that nano materials are safe for use in the human body, rather than numerous class action lawsuits and litigation. Currently it’s being studied how combining nano particles with other molecules can limit the risks associated with these materials. If we do not dream, then we will not realize the infinite potential of nanoscience. And yet, if we do not keep a watchful eye, this tiny technology could lead us toward destruction.
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