Iron-Containing Nanomaterials Can Damage Skin
Summary posted by Meridian on 2/11/2009
Source: Environmental Health News
Author: Abby D. Benninghoff, Ph.D.
Researchers who tested iron-containing nanomaterials on engineered skin, human skin cells and mice skin, concluded that it resulted in inflammation and other cell damage. The results of the study were published in the December 2008 issue of the journal Toxicology. The study looked at the toxic effects of two formulations of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs): one partially purified batch with low iron content and another unpurified batch containing 30 percent iron. They found that both formulations caused free-radical formation and oxidative stress in human skin cells but the nanotubes with higher iron content were more toxic. According to the article, "...unpurified SWCNT, can cause dermal toxicity associated with free radical generation, oxidative stress and inflammation." It goes on to say that nanoparticles may be a health risk for workers who use or make SWCNTs, as well as for consumers of the final products containing the nanoparticles. The article can be viewed online at the link below.
The original article may still be available at www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/iron-nanotubes-damage-skin/
As tagged by Meridian Institute:
Health And Medical:
Diseases
Implications:
Human Health Risks, Worker Safety, Environmental Risks
Nanomaterials:
Carbon Nanoparticle
Regions:
North America
Stakeholders:
Government, Industry, NGO, Academia
Minerals And Metals:
Metals
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