Sharma R., Shetty K., Liang R., Chen C-J.
Florida State University, US
Keywords: carbon nanotube, epidermis damage, MRI, toxicity
Carbon nanotubes are emerging as potential tools in drug delivery nanocarriers to target specific cell types and carbon cages filled with metal molecules may improve MRI microimaging. The present paper reviews the current state of art on detection of possible hazards of carbon nanotubes with limitations to use of them as potential biomedical material for their bio-applications. The present report demonstrates the possibility of 30 nm sized carbon nanotubes penetrating in skin tissue very fast during microimaging MRI experiments within 2-3 minutes because of its small size and easy penetration across barrier. It indicates that some types of nanoparticles might pose as tiny toxin to tissue before it is used as nanocarrier, chemotherapeutic nanosphere. The carbon nanotubes showed damage to epidermis and hair across the skin. By histology, main damage was at the level of membrane and nucleus at different epidermis, dermis layers. These features suggest the thorough experimental validation to exclude any chance of carbon nanotubes or nanoparticles before their acceptance as potential tools in health nanotechnology.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 620 - 623
Industry sectors: Medical & Biotech | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topic: Environmental Health & Safety of Nanomaterials
ISBN: 1-4200-6183-6