Research Strategies for Safety Evaluation of Nanomaterials, Part II: Toxicological and Safety Evaluation of Nanomaterials, Current Challenges and Data Needs

This article summarizes a round table discussion held in 2005 by the Society of Toxicology at their annual meeting in New Orleans that reviewed the current challenges and data needs for conducting toxicological and safety evaluations of nanomaterials. The article reviews the unique physicochemical properties associated with nanomaterials sin the context of the difficulties associated with measuring and characterizing them. Then, the article reviews the recommendations of the discussion group of areas where research is needed to assist in the development of comprehensive toxicological safety evaluations. These include the development of appropriate hazard data, the collection of accurate human and environmental exposure data, and the development of a better fundamental understanding of the modes of action for nanomaterials.