Advances in Toxicology and Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials and Emerging Contaminants

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 371 pages
Publication date: 13 March 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book delves into cutting-edge methodologies for understanding the toxicology and mechanisms of nanomaterials, microplastics, fine aerosol particulates (PM2.5), and emerging organic pollutants. It also presents the latest computational approaches for predicting and assessing the toxicity of nanoscale materials, which have the potential to enter the environment and human organism. Written by renowned experts at the forefront of environmental science and nanomedicine, this book is designed for both young researchers and experienced professionals engaged in environmental protection, human health, occupational safety, nanotechnology, material science, and nanomedicine, as well as graduate students specializing in environmental and health sciences.

Nanomaterials, microplastics, fine aerosol particulates (PM2.5), and emerging organic pollutants are all covered in this comprehensive book, which also provides the most recent computational methods for toxicity prediction and risk assessment. It is written by renowned experts in environmental science and nanomedicine and is intended for both young researchers and seasoned professionals working in the fields of environmental protection, human health, occupational safety, nanotechnology, material science, and nanomedicine, as well as graduate students majoring in environmental and health sciences.

Nanomaterials are defined as materials with at least one dimension sized between 1 and 100 nanometers (nm). They have unique physical and chemical properties that make them useful in various applications, such as electronics, medicine, and energy. However, their small size also makes them susceptible to harmful effects on human health and the environment.

One of the main concerns associated with nanomaterials is their potential to enter the human body through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Once inside the body, nanomaterials can interact with cells and tissues, leading to a range of health effects, including inflammation, cancer, and genetic damage. Studies have shown that exposure to certain nanomaterials can cause lung inflammation, liver damage, and reproductive problems in animals.

Microplastics are small plastic particles that are less than 5 mm in diameter. They are commonly found in a variety of products, such as clothing, toys, and cosmetics. Microplastics can be ingested by animals and humans, and they have been found in a wide range of tissues, including the liver, stomach, and intestines. Microplastics have been linked to a range of health effects, including inflammation, toxicity, and disruption of the endocrine system.

Fine aerosol particulates (PM2.5) are tiny particles that are less than 2.5 microns in diameter. They are formed by the combustion of fossil fuels and other sources of pollution. PM2.5 can be inhaled and enter the bloodstream, where they can cause a range of health effects, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, and lung cancer. Studies have shown that exposure to PM2.5 can increase the risk of premature death and reduce lung function in adults.

Emerging organic pollutants are chemicals that are not regulated by traditional environmental laws. They are often found in products such as pesticides, fertilizers, and personal care products. Emerging organic pollutants can be toxic to human health and the environment, and they can accumulate in the food chain and cause a range of health effects, including cancer, reproductive problems, and neurological disorders.

Toxicology is the study of the effects of chemicals and other substances on living organisms. It is an important field of research that helps to identify the risks associated with exposure to harmful substances and to develop strategies for reducing exposure and mitigating the effects of exposure.

Nanomaterials, microplastics, fine aerosol particulates (PM2.5), and emerging organic pollutants are all examples of emerging pollutants that require careful study and management. Traditional toxicology methods are not sufficient for studying these pollutants, as they have unique properties that require new approaches and techniques.

One of the most important methods for studying the toxicology of nanomaterials is in vitro testing. In vitro testing involves growing cells or tissues in a laboratory and exposing them to nanomaterials under controlled conditions. This method can help to identify the toxic effects of nanomaterials on cells and tissues and to determine the mechanisms of toxicity.

In vivo testing is another important method for studying the toxicology of nanomaterials. In vivo testing involves exposing animals to nanomaterials in a controlled environment and monitoring their health and behavior. This method can help to identify the toxic effects of nanomaterials on animals and to determine the dose and duration of exposure that is necessary to cause harm.

Computational methods are also important for studying the toxicology of nanomaterials. Computational methods can help to predict the toxic effects of nanomaterials based on their chemical composition and structure. This can help to reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming in vitro and in vivo testing.

Risk assessment is another important aspect of studying the toxicology of nanomaterials. Risk assessment involves evaluating the potential risks associated with exposure to nanomaterials and developing strategies for reducing exposure and mitigating the effects of exposure. Risk assessment can be done using a variety of methods, including quantitative risk assessment and qualitative risk assessment.

Quantitative risk assessment involves using mathematical models to evaluate the potential risks associated with exposure to nanomaterials. These models can be used to estimate the dose and duration of exposure that is necessary to cause harm and to evaluate the potential health effects of exposure.

Qualitative risk assessment involves using expert judgment and decision-making to evaluate the potential risks associated with exposure to nanomaterials. This method can be used to identify the most vulnerable populations and to develop strategies for reducing exposure and mitigating the effects of exposure.

In conclusion, nanomaterials, microplastics, fine aerosol particulates (PM2.5), and emerging organic pollutants are all examples of emerging pollutants that require careful study and management. Traditional toxicology methods are not sufficient for studying these pollutants, as they have unique properties that require new approaches and techniques. In vitro testing, in vivo testing, computational methods, and risk assessment are all important methods for studying the toxicology of nanomaterials and developing strategies for reducing exposure and mitigating the effects of exposure.

Weight: 593g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811691188
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022