Research on the risks of nanotechnology
Limited research has been done to measure the effects of nanoparticles on the body. The problem with researches like these is that there is no real adequate method to exactly measure the effects. Most researches have also been done in lab circumstances, which come nowhere close to the common-or-garden use of consumers. A discussion of some of the researches that have been done over the years.
In lab rats the harmful effects of nanoparticles titanium dioxide (which are used in most sunscreens) are clear. Brain cells injected with titanium dioxide formed an enzyme which causes Alzheimer’s in humans. A doubt that can be placed with this research is that the brain cells were injected directly. It remains unclear whether particles titanium dioxide are able to penetrate the skin and end up in the bloodstream, where they can potentially be transported to the brain. It is then the question whether this amount will be enough to cause serious damage.
Another research done by Trouiller e.a. showed that lab rats developed cancer when being exposed to nanoparticles titanium dioxide. Also, critical notes can be made here. The rats received large quantities of titanium dioxide in their drinking water, after which they developed tumors. It is likely that the quantity which caused them to get cancer will never occur in human beings, unless they start eating sunscreen by the bottles, because the amount that was administered to the rats is comparable to humans eating a big teaspoon full of TiO2 daily for many years. However, one of the fellow researchers, Robert Schiestl, argues that titanium dioxide, even in low quantities, can be the cause of rare cancers. He also says that nanoparticles cannot penetrate the skin. Sprays can be inhaled and the nanoparticles can be stored in the lungs, where they can cause damage.
Other research by American and Australian researchers has shown that nanoparticles titanium dioxide in sunscreen does not penetrate the skin. Zinc oxide (also used in sunscreen) penetrates the skin in such low quantities that it does not pose a threat to human health.
In 2008 there was a commotion about carbon nanotubes. The science magazine Nature came with an article that stated that carbon nanotubes longer than twenty nanometer caused cancer, just like asbestos particles do. Will nanoparticles go down the same route, where we think we have found the holy grail and use it for many years, only to find out that they are extremely toxic to humans and the environment? Or will most of the nanoparticles prove to be safe?
Social context of Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is rapidly becoming a part of our daily lives. It is already used in a lot of consumer products, for example socks and sunscreen. Nanoparticles have important advantages, for example nanoparticles titanium dioxide (prevent damaging UV rays from penetrating your skin), make it possible to get a tan without getting skin cancer. However, there could also be negative effects, because the particles are so small. In theory they have the ability to penetrate our cells and damage our DNA. Not a lot is known about this. Just as there is limited knowledge about the effects of nanoparticles in the environment.
When developing a new technology it is important to take public safety and the preservation of a healthy environment into account. It is quite possible that in not every utilization of nanotechnology enough attention has been given to health and safety aspects. According to some scientists, there is a risk that nanotechnology will develop further with the absence of a clear regulatory framework, because authorities are awaiting the developments. This way, severe problems can arise. On the other hand, too many rules can have a smothering effect on the innovative power of these developing technologies.
Instead of using the precautionary principle, which would mean holding off on using nanoparticles for many years to come until proper research methods have been designed, the risks are known and a well-informed decision can be made whether it is safe to use them or not, the governments employ the theory of ‘safe until proven otherwise’. Some people argue that, since nanoparticles can be used in consumer products without knowing the long-term risks, a lot more attention needs to be given to information supply. This way, people can choose for themselves whether to use nanotech products or not.
Therefore the question that I want to raise in this debate is:
Should consumers be informed about the use of nanoparticles in consumer products?
This is a fairly complicated subject and I understand that you would like to know some more information. I would like to advise you to watch the video below, don’t worry, it is not very long and is a good explanation of the topic. Also, I have already posted some background information, pros and cons and examples of uses of nanotechnology in consumer products. I will continue updating this blog with more information on the topic, so if you’re interested, check back regularly! When you have questions or would like me to give specific information, please ask and I’ll make sure it will appear on here!
I am looking forward to reading your reactions!
