Carbon nanomaterials in biological systems

Abstract

This paper intends to reflect, from the biophysical viewpoint, our current understanding on interfacing nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes and fullerenes, with biological systems. Strategies for improving the solubility, and therefore, the bioavailability of nanomaterials in aqueous solutions are summarized. In particular, the underlining mechanisms of attaching biomacromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins) and lysophospholipids onto carbon nanotubes and gallic acids onto fullerenes are analyzed. The diffusion and the cellular delivery of RNA-coated carbon nanotubes are characterized using fluorescence microscopy. The translocation of fullerenes across cell membranes is simulated using molecular dynamics to offer new insight into the complex issue of nanotoxicity. To assess the fate of nanomaterials in the environment, the biomodification of lipid-coated carbon nanotubes by the aquatic organism Daphnia magna is discussed. The aim of this paper is to illuminate the need for adopting multidisciplinary approaches in the field study of nanomaterials in biological systems and in the environment.

Pharmacokinetics of nanomaterials: an overview of carbon nanotubes, fullerenes and quantum dots

“…The association of a carbon nanotube with a surfactant such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is pH dependent as is the actual surface area of a nanotube covered by the compound. 39 For example, what is the nature of a nanomaterial 'sequestered' in a lysosome characterized by a very acidic pH? Subtle differences in the physiological milieu of the nanotube (e.g., local ion concentration) would also be expected to alter subsequent particle disposition as well as toxicity.…”

Comparative study on modification of single wall carbon nanotubes by sodium dodecylbenzene sulfonate and melamine sulfonate superplasticiser

“…The p-p interaction between the polymers and the SWCNTs surfaces contributes to the solubilization of the SWCNTs [40]. Furthermore, previous studies had shown that the wrapping of SWCNTs by polymers was believed to be a general phenomenon, driven largely by thermodynamics to eliminate hydrophobic interface between the tubes and the aqueous medium [38,41].…”

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes in alfalfa and wheat: toxicology and uptake

“…The extraordinary properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) [1] have inspired their use in biosensors [2], drug delivery vehicles and tumour imaging [3,4], electrically conductive polymers [5] and concrete reinforcement [6].…”

“…Their fibrous structure raises concerns that they might have effects similar to those of asbestos [7,8]. Observations of the interactions of CNTs with animals, made both in vitro and in vivo, are sometimes contradictory [1,3,7]. Similarly, studies assessing CNT toxicity and bioavailability in plants have reported positive [9,10], negative [9,11] and even neutral [12][13][14] effects on germination and growth.…”