Nanotoxicology: an emerging discipline evolving from studies of ultrafine particles.

Although humans have been exposed to airborne nanosized particles for many years, the. he rapidly developing field of nanotechnology is likely increase this exposure through inhalation, ingestion, skin uptake, and injection of engineered nanomaterials. Information about safety and potential hazards is urgently needed. Results of toxicologic studies with airborne ultra fine particles can be viewed as the basis for the expanding field of nanotoxicology, Additional considerations for assessing safety of engineered nano-sized particles include careful selections of appropriate and relevant doses/concentrations of nanomaterials, the likelihood of increased effects in a compromised organism, and also the benefits of possible desirable effects. An interdisciplinary team approach is mandatory for nanotoxicology research to arrive at an appropriate risk assessment.