Bio-nano interactions can be defined as the study of interactions between nanoscale entities and biological systems such as, but not limited to, peptides, proteins, lipids, DNA and other biomolecules, cells and cellular receptors and organisms including humans. Studying bio-nano interactions is particularly useful for understanding engineered materials that have at least one dimension in the nanoscale. Such materials may consist of discrete particles or nanostructured surfaces. Much of biology functions at the nanoscale; therefore, our ability to manipulate materials such that they are taken up at the nanoscale, and engage biological machinery in a designed and purposeful manner, opens new vistas for more efficient diagnostics, therapeutics (treatments) and tissue regeneration, so-called nanomedicine. Additionally, this ability of nanomaterials to interact with and be taken up by cells allows nanomaterials to be used as probes and tools to advance our understanding of cellular functioning. Yet, as a new technology, assessment of the safety of nanomaterials, and the applicability of existing regulatory frameworks for nanomaterials must be investigated in parallel with development of novel applications. The Royal Society meeting 'Bio-nano interactions: new tools, insights and impacts' provided an important platform for open dialogue on the current state of knowledge on these issues, bringing together scientists, industry, regulatory and legal experts to concretize existing discourse in science law and policy. This paper summarizes these discussions and the insights that emerged.
Background to the meetingThroughout the 21st century, reports about dangers and benefits of using well-established toxins, as well as substances that were previously considered innocuous, have been diligently examined by the Royal Society. The Royal Society has proactively engaged in discussions regarding nanotechnologies since the early 2000s. It was the first major international scientific community to publish its opinion regarding the opportunities and challenges posed by nanotechnologies and nanomaterials for society [1]. As noted in the Royal Society's report in 2004, nanotechnology offers a fresh perspective for scientific understanding of the physical properties of matter. Subsequently, Royal Society journals have published pioneering articles concerning this emerging field, starting with inhalation toxicology and exploring scientific concerns that ultrafine airborne particles might cause harmful effects (figure 1), and the implications of that possible harm when applying nanotechnology in a diverse range of consumer applications [2]. Those findings prompted a pause to reconsider the overwhelmingly positive attitudes regarding the 'nanotechnology revolution'. Thus, although potential dangers from substances used in nanomedicine are unquantified as yet, both the potential benefits of applications and any possible negative implications following their use have consistently been the subject of lively discourse at the Royal Society.On 3...