On October 31, 2013 scientists gathered at Duke University Integrated Toxicology and Environmental Health Program (ITEHP) symposium to discuss the latest findings on the impact of nanomaterial exposure on human and environmental health. André Nel from the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine stressed that many materials do more harm than good and should therefore be subjected to high throughput screenings, characterizing risk and exposure outcomes. The scientists present at the meeting further discussed the differences in behavior of nanomaterials depending on the environmental and biological system. However, Kam Leong, James B. Duke Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Duke University, also pointed out that nanomaterials can help to safely and cost-efficiently deliver genes to treat hemophilia. Other topics discussed at the symposium include exposure effects on the respiratory system and on filter feeders, as well as the effects of occupational exposure to carbon nanotubes. Nanomaterials are increasingly used in consumer products, including food packaging.
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Sheila Yong (December 2013). “Toxicology symposium highlights the flip sides of nanomaterials.” Environmental Factor.
