Nanotechnology to Nanotoxicology: An esplanade to explore

Abstract

Nanomaterials have become an inevitable part of common daily life endeavors, therefore research on nanotoxicity is gaining attention. The most extensively used nanomaterials comprise metallic nanoparticles which impede cellular pathways by producing Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) leading to enzyme malfunction and ultimately to death of the cell.  The inexorable exposure of metal oxide nanomaterials escort reduced cell viability, mitochondrial dysfunction, enhanced oxidative stress and altered protein expression on the molecular level. The nanotoxicity of carbon-based nanomaterial is accounted for the generation of ROS which harasses the homeostasis of the intracellular milieu and also induces genotoxicity. The exposure of quantum dots, which are a prime tool in advancing biomedical applications, has chances for the generation of reduced forms of ions like cadmium which are fatal to cells. These nanomaterials can make their way to enter the body intentionally or unintentionally via various routes. It is earmarked for addressing the toxicological activity of nanoparticles and their derived products to ascertain if or the extent they may constitute a threat to the environment and human health and define the mechanism of nanotoxicity posed by these nanostructures on biological systems. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the toxicological effects of nanomaterials based on research studies of various In-silico, In-vitro and In-vivo assays for nanotoxicity. Therefore, these studies can be the basis for designing and engineering safe nanomaterials and their product directing their use in nanomedical sciences.