Are nanotubes a potential carcinogen?

In experiments on laboratory rodents, scientists at the University of Edinburgh, working under the guidance of Professor Ken Donaldson, have found that exposure to long carbon nanotubes already used for commercial purposes causes damage to the mesothelium, similar to the effects of exposure to asbestos.

The authors exposed the mesothelium, a layer of cells lining the surface of the lungs, abdominal cavity and heart chambers of rats, to hollow nanofibers. As a result, inflammation of the tissue developed with its subsequent scarring, leading to the formation of so-called granulomas.

Mesothelial granulomas – foci of productive inflammation that look like dense nodules – usually develop when exposed to asbestos and often transform into malignant neoplasms – mesotheliomas.

There is already a fairly large amount of data according to which carbon nanotubes damage the lungs, however, the authors for the first time received evidence of their detrimental effect on mesothelium. They note that only long nanotubes caused damage, but further research is needed to prove the safety of short nanotubes.

Carbon nanotubes are structures synthesized from single carbon atoms and molecules. Experts believe that their use has huge potential in medicine, electronics, and especially in the creation of new materials. However, they emphasize that before such products appear on the market, it is necessary to conduct comprehensive studies that will eliminate the risk of long-term health-threatening side effects.

It is necessary to study the probability of these tiny particles entering the body with inhaled air, their subsequent migration and possible carcinogenic effects.

The greatest potential danger is work in production using nanotubes, which can also get into the environment, for example, during decomposition and recycling of garbage.

At the moment there is not enough evidence to impose a moratorium on the use of carbon nanotubes, however, the authors urge the government and industry to take urgent measures that would guarantee the safety of the use of new nanomaterials.

Portal "Eternal youth" www.vechnayamolodost.ru based on ABC materials

23.05.2008