Nanotoxicity

Question 1

why does nanoparticle surface area to volume ratio pose a risk

Answer 1

increase in surface reactivity
increased adsorption of chemicals leading to strong catalytic activity

Question 2

name risks of nanoparticles (8 risks)

Answer 2

1. surface area to volume ratio
2. agglomeration
3. diffusion
4. protein/lipid adsorption
5. cross lung epithelium
6. enter blood circulation
7. uptake by mitochondria and nucleus
8. may have secondary target organ

Question 3

surface chemistry of nanoparticles

Answer 3

the increased surface area of atoms and molecules of the nanoparticles allow for the dissolution and release of metal ions which are toxic
the ions may face adsorption by biologic molecules such as DNA and cause denaturation

Question 4

effects of nanoparticles and the generation of ROS

Answer 4

metal ions from nanoparticles may induce oxidative stress within mitochondria.
Oxygen radical and hydroxyl radicals formed

Question 5

portal of entry for nanoparticles

Answer 5

1. respiratory tract (industrial)
2. gastrointestinal tract (food additives)
3. skin (cosmetics)
4. injection (medical application)

Question 6

elimination of nanoparticles

Answer 6

1. urinary
2. fecal