Nanos and Health
Nanos and health
In many fields (cosmetics, food, textiles, construction, medicine, etc.), manufactured nanomaterials are increasingly used for their specific properties (anti-bacterial properties, modification of appearance, color, texture, etc.). However, these same “desirable” properties can lead to undesirable effects on health, where many uncertainties and concerns remain: due to their increased reactivity, nanomaterials are indeed likely to cause toxicity and potentially stronger inflammatory effects than “conventional” materials of the same chemical nature.
The studies carried out so far are mainly in vitro while the in vivo studies are mainly in animals with toxic effects on the heart, liver, spleen, stomach and kidneys.
The results are not all necessarily applicable to humans but still provide valuable information on the potential adverse health effects.
According to a scientific paper published in 2021, the nanoparticles with the greatest risk to human health are nano-TiO2 (titanium dioxide), silver nanoparticles, silicon dioxide (silica) and carbon nanotubes.
The information sheets on the topic
Any questions or comments? This information sheet compiled by AVICENN is intended to be completed and updated. Please feel free to contribute.
Other news on the topic
Upcoming Nano Agenda
- Webconference for analysis laboratories, plant fertilizer manufacturers and distributors, public authorities…
- Moderated by David Krupka, nanotechnologies development manager at AFNOR Normalisation and Emilie Langlois-Bertrand, nantechnologies standardization project manager.
- In partnership with Armand Masion, CNRS Research Director, and Sandrine Mocoeur, Health, Safety, Environment and Quality Manager at SYNGENTA.
- This exchange will also be an opportunity to explore the creation of a national platform to identify standardization needs.
- Website: www.afnor.org/evenement/nanotechnologies-agriculture-cadre-pratique-responsable/
- 8th Congress of Occupational Medicine and Health (CNMST 2026)
- Theme 5: Emerging pathologies and risks, Mr Henri Bastos (ANSES), Pr Lynda Bensefa-Colas (AP-HP), Dr Catherine Nisse (CHU Lille)
- Website: www.medecine-sante-travail.com
- 20th meeting of the “nano and health” dialogue committee
- Organizer: ANSES
This sheet was originally created in February 2019