Toxicity and risks to human health of nanomaterials

In the context of the exponential development and production worldwide of engineered nanomaterials, a critical issue is the essential need of knowledge on nanomaterials toxicity. Several physico-chemical parameters have been proposed to be critical determinants in nanomaterial toxicity: size, cristalline structure, chemical composition, surface area, oxidation status, ..., but no single parameter has yet been identified as responsible for toxicity. Potential effects on human health also depend on the mode of entry of the nanomaterial (oral, respiratory, dermal...) and the way the body will manage the nanomaterial (target organs, metabolism, elimination and effects observed). This lecture will summarize the current knowledge on toxicity and risks to human health of nanomaterials