Nanoexposure, Unusual Diseases, and New Health and Safety Concerns

Abstract

Accumulating studies in animals have shown that nanoparticles could cause unusual rapid lung injury and extrapulmonary toxicity. Whether exposure of workers to nanoparticles may result in some unexpected damage as seen in animals is still a big concern. We previously reported findings regarding a group of patients exposed to nanoparticles and presenting with an unusual disease. The reported disease was characterized by bilateral chest fluid, pulmonary fibrosis, pleural granuloma, and multiorgan damage and was highly associated with the nanoparticle exposure. To strengthen this association, further information on exposure and the disease was collected and discussed. Our studies show that some kinds of nanomaterials, such as silica nanoparticles and nanosilicates, may be very toxic and even fatal to occupational workers exposed to them without any effective personal protective equipment. More research and collaborative efforts on nanosafety are required in order to prevent and minimize the potential hazards of nanomaterials to humans and the environment.

Fluorescence excitation analysis by two-photon confocal laser scanning microscopy: a new method to identify fluorescent nanoparticles on histological tissue sections

“…This approach could have some pharmacological and toxicological applications, resulting from obtaining the distribution of nanoparticles in various tissues in small animal models and in humans. [22][23][24] …”

Immune System and Environmental Xenobiotics - The Effect of Selected Mineral Fibers and Particles on the Immune Response

“…First of all, silica and silicates have been associated with the development of lung inflammation, interstitial fibrosis, bronchitis, small airway disease, emphysema, and vascular diseases as well as immunologic reactions (Song & Tang, 2011). Recent studies showed that Th1 and Th2 cytokines may be involved in silicosis and regulatory T-cells (Treg cells) have crucial role in modulation of immune homeostasis by regulating Th1/Th2 polarization.…”

Polyacrylate/nanosilica causes pleural and pericardial effusion, and pulmonary fibrosis and granuloma in rats similar to those observed in exposed workers

“…We previously found that a group of patients exposed to PA/NPSi had pleural and pericardial effusion, pulmonary fibrosis, and granuloma, which we suspected were related to their high exposure to PA/NPSi. [9][10][11] Our present study showed that PA/NPSi caused specific toxicity presenting as pleural and pericardial effusion, fibrosis of lung and pleura, and pulmonary granuloma. These findings are almost identical to the previously reported patients.…”

“…Furthermore, NPSi have been isolated and detected in patients' pulmonary macrophages, pleural effusions, and microvessles. 10,11 We speculate that the patients' disease could be related to their high exposure to nanomaterials in the coatings. [9][10][11] The effects of PA/NPSi on animals, as well as the acute toxicities of PA/ NPSi, are unknown.…”

“…10,11 We speculate that the patients' disease could be related to their high exposure to nanomaterials in the coatings. [9][10][11] The effects of PA/NPSi on animals, as well as the acute toxicities of PA/ NPSi, are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the acute toxicities of PA/NPSi in rats.…”