Key physicochemical properties of nanomaterials in view of their toxicity: an exploratory systematic investigation for the example of carbon-based nanomaterial

Abstract

Currently, a noncomprehensive understanding of the physicochemical properties of carbon-based nanomaterial (CBNs), which may affect toxic effects, is still observable. In this study, an exploratory systematic investigation into the key physicochemical properties of multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT), single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT), and C 60 -fullerene on their ecotoxicity has been undertaken. We undertook an extensive survey of the literature pertaining to the ecotoxicity of organism representative of the trophic level of algae, crustaceans, and fish. Based on this, a set of data reporting both the physicochemical properties of carbon-based nanomaterial and the observed toxic effect has been established. The relationship between physicochemical properties and observed toxic effect was investigated based on various statistical approaches. Specifically, analysis of variance by one-way ANOVA was used to assess the effect of categorical properties (use of a dispersant or treatments in the test medium, type of carbon-based nanomaterial, i.e., SWCNT, MWCNT, C 60 -fullerene, functionalization), while multiple regression analysis was used to assess the effect of quantitative properties (i.e., diameter length of nanotubes, secondary size) on the toxicity values. The here described investigations revealed significant relationships among the physicochemical properties and observed toxic effects. The research was mainly affected by the low availability of data and also by the low variability of the studies collected. Overall, our results demonstrate that the here proposed and applied approach could have a major role in identifying the physicochemical properties of relevance for the toxicity of nanomaterial. However, the future success of the approach would require that the ENMs and the experimental conditions used in the toxicity studies are fully characterized.

Physicochemical characteristics that affect carbon dot safety: Lessons from a comprehensive study on a nanoparticle library

“…Because of their specific properties at the nanoscale, engineered nanomaterials raise safety concerns which appear to be linked to their physicochemical characteristics, including composition, size, charge and surface chemistry (Gatoo et al, 2014;Luyts et al, 2013;Nel et al, 2006). Although carbon is not considered as a toxic element, some carbon-based nanomaterials such as pristine carbon nanotubes or C60-fullerenes have raised some concerns (Li et al, 2013 ;Ronzani et al, 2012 ;Salieri et al, 2017). Thus, developing CDs for biomedical applications requires assessing not only their efficacy, but also their safety.…”

Lysosome mediates toxicological effects of polyethyleneimine-based cationic carbon dots

“…However, because of their specific properties at the nanoscale, engineered NPs raise safety concerns (Nel et al 2006). Although carbon is not considered as a toxic element, carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) or C60-fullerenes have been shown to exhibit adverse effects in function of their shape, size, functional groups at their surface, or other physicochemical parameters (Li et al 2013;Ronzani et al 2012;Salieri et al 2017). Therefore, developing CDs for biomedical applications requires assessing not only their efficacy, but also their toxicological properties prior to further developments for the clinic.…”

Carbon Nanotubes in Tumor-Targeted Chemotherapeutic Formulations: A Review of Opportunities and Challenges

“…Finally, the possibility that CNTs could be harmful by purification procedures should be addressed to look for alterations that can stimulate potential differences in the adaptive immune response. For the accurate evaluation and hazard identification of toxicity, the accuracy of analytical methods must be judged using standardized cytotoxicity protocols and more than one assay. , Hence, it is required to establish standard protocols to evaluate the physical–chemical characteristics of the CNTs. , The physicochemical properties of CNTs associated with toxicity effects can be caused by the following:…”

“…For the accurate evaluation and hazard identification of toxicity, the accuracy of analytical methods must be judged using standardized cytotoxicity protocols and more than one assay. 287,288 Hence, it is required to establish standard protocols to evaluate the physical− chemical characteristics of the CNTs. 187,289 The physicochemical properties of CNTs associated with toxicity effects can be caused by the following: (i) Composition.…”