Safety Aspects of Bio-Based Nanomaterials

Abstract

Moving towards a bio-based and circular economy implies a major focus on the responsible and sustainable utilization of bio-resources. The emergence of nanotechnology has opened multiple possibilities, not only in the existing industrial sectors, but also for completely novel applications of nanoscale bio-materials, the commercial exploitation of which has only begun during the last few years. Bio-based materials are often assumed not to be toxic. However, this pre-assumption is not necessarily true. Here, we provide a short overview on health and environmental aspects associated with bio-based nanomaterials, and on the relevant regulatory requirements. We also discuss testing strategies that may be used for screening purposes at pre-commercial stages. Although the tests presently used to reveal hazards are still evolving, regarding modifi­cations required for nanomaterials, their application is needed before the upscaling or commercialization of bio-based nanomaterials, to ensure the market potential of the nanomaterials is not delayed by uncertainties about safety issues.

In Vitro Biological Impact of Nanocellulose Fibers on Human Gut Bacteria and Gastrointestinal Cells

“…As for other nanomaterials, it is believed that, in order to reach the full potential of NFC applications, the materials’ safety aspects have to be considered at early stages of product development [ 8 ]. In this sense, the number of studies aiming to understand the potential hazard of NC materials, including NFC, has increased during the last years [ 9 , 10 ].…”

“…However, as summarized by Endes et al, while several authors suggest limited toxicity, others alert about the potential hazard of NC materials [ 9 ]. Conflicting results can be a consequence of the different physicochemical properties of the NC materials under study and the fact that the route of exposure may also influence the biological impact of NC [ 8 ]. It should be noticed that the main focus has been occupational exposure, and therefore most of the toxicological studies are based on exposure by inhalation.…”

Engineered Gold-Based Nanomaterials: Morphologies and Functionalities in Biomedical Applications. A Mini Review

“…Despite this, it is necessary to evaluate the unintended side effects on human health. Many individual studies investigated the cytotoxicity, toxicity, bioaccumulation, retention time, and physiological response of several different gold nanomaterials [169]. On the other hand, the literature shows that many contradictions and incoherent information has resulted on the concrete effects of nanoparticles.…”

The neurotoxicity of nanoparticles: A bibliometric analysis

“…NPs are widely used in various fields such as catalysts, electronics industry, optics, magnetism, energy chemistry, biomedicine, and nano-micromachining technologies (Divins et al, 2014; Kono, 2013; Singh and Nalwa, 2011; Zhi, 2017). With the increase of exposure to NPs in human life, its impact on human health has gradually attracted attention (Catalan and Norppa, 2017). Current studies have shown that NPs can enter the body via the skin, digestive tract, respiratory tract, and so on (Stern and McNeil, 2008).…”