Insights on the Dynamics and Toxicity of Nanoparticles in Environmental Matrices

Abstract

The manufacturing rate of nanoparticles (10–100 nm) is steadily increasing due to their extensive applications in the fabrication of nanoproducts related to pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical devices, paints and pigments, energy storage etc. An increase in research related to nanotechnology is also a cause for the production and disposal of nanomaterials at the lab scale. As a result, contamination of environmental matrices with nanoparticles becomes inevitable, and the understanding of the risk of nanoecotoxicology is getting larger attention. In this context, focusing on the environmental hazards is essential. Hence, this manuscript aims to review the toxic effects of nanoparticles on soil, water, aquatic, and terrestrial organisms. The effects of toxicity on vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants and the source of exposure, environmental and biological dynamics, and the adverse effects of some nanoparticles are discussed.

Surface-to-Volume Ratio Affects the Toxicity of Nanoinks in Daphnids

“…According to the available literature [47], AgNPs and Ag + generate different gene expression patterns in exposed daphnids. In a solution that contains AgNPs, daphnids are exposed to NPs as well as Ag + ions because of the dissolution [48]; therefore, one hypothesis states that daphnids exposed in Falcon tubes may ''interact" more with silver in its ionic form rather than silver NPs due to the possible NP sedimentation [49]. Our findings support this hypothesis, as the observed enzyme activity in daphnids exposed in Falcon tubes or Petri dishes had distinct differences (Figure 2).…”

Electroconductive Collagen‐Carbon Nanodots Nanocomposite Elicits Neurite Outgrowth, Supports Neurogenic Differentiation and Accelerates Electrophysiological Maturation of Neural Progenitor Spheroids

“…[ 74,75 ] Overall, our results provide additional evidence to support recent arguments that emphasize the need for immobilization of carbon‐based nanomaterials within scaffolds to mitigate undesirable outcomes that are associated with their use as suspended particles, such as bioaccumulation (Figure S2D, Supporting Information). [ 76,77 ] Furthermore, the consistent LDH values found at 6 and 72 h across all conditions with suspended GlyCNDs indicate cell death onset within the first 6 h of exposure. Most importantly, the cytotoxicity assays played a crucial role in determining that immobilized GlyCNDs at a concentration of 1 mg mL −1 displays viability results that are comparable to those of the control groups, while greatly improving the poor electrical conductivity of pristine collagen.…”

Can bacteria and carbon-based nanomaterials revolutionize nanoremediation strategies for industrial effluents?

“…The evolution of nanobioremediation hinges on creating new nanomaterials with enhanced features and biocompatibility, emphasizing the need for safety standards and responsible use. Understanding the biopersistence of nanomaterials is key to addressing environmental concerns and supporting the safe use of nanotechnology (Devasena et al, 2022;Vineeth Kumar et al, 2022;Rahman et al, 2023;Chávez-Hernández et al, 2024a). Despite its potential, addressing ecological issues remains a priority to ensure the responsible progression of technology.…”