Using a holistic approach to assess the impact of engineered nanomaterials inducing toxicity in aquatic systems

J Food Drug Anal. 2014 Mar;22(1):128-146. doi: 10.1016/j.jfda.2014.01.011. Epub 2014 Feb 4.

Abstract

In this report, we critically reviewed selected intrinsic physicochemical properties of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) and their role in the interaction of the ENMs with the immediate surroundings in representative aquatic environments. The behavior of ENMs with respect to dynamic microenvironments at the nano-bio-eco interface level, and the resulting impact on their toxicity, fate, and exposure potential are elaborated. Based on this literature review, we conclude that a holistic approach is urgently needed to fulfill our knowledge gap regarding the safety of discharged ENMs. This comparative approach affords the capability to recognize and understand the potential hazards of ENMs and their toxicity mechanisms, and ultimately to establish a quantitative and reliable system to predict such outcomes.

Keywords: Aquatic ecosystems; Engineered nanomaterials; Environmental health; Holistic approach.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Nanostructures / toxicity*
  • Oxidative Stress
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism
  • Toxicology / methods*

Substances

  • Reactive Oxygen Species

Grants and funding

This study was supported by a grant received from the NSF-CREST program (National Science Foundation-Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology; grant number HRD-0833178).