Speaker
Dr
Anna Shvedova
(West Virginia University, USA)
Description
Advancements in nanotechnology and broad applications of
nanomaterials raise the issue of their potential adverse
health effects particularly in occupational and
environmental settings. Among different nanomaterials,
Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNT) – with their unique
physico-chemical, electronic and mechanical properties – are
emerging as important objects of toxicological studies.
However, toxic effects of SWCNT have not been well
characterized, especially with respect to pulmonary
outcomes. We will present data demonstrating that SWCNT in
doses relevant to potential occupational exposures may exert
their toxic effects in the lung of exposed animals in vivo.
We documented an unusual and robust inflammatory and
fibrogenic response closely associated with the progression
of oxidative stress in the lungs. Because realistic
exposures to SWCNT are likely to occur in conjunction with
other pathogenic influences, e.g., microbial infections, our
finding of compromised bacterial clearance in the lungs of
SWCNT-exposed mice are of great practical importance. This
talk will address important issues of respiratory toxicity
of aspired vs inhaled SWCNT in relation to their ability to
cause pulmonary injury. Finally, the mechanisms of toxicity
will be discussed in the context of current regulations of
protection and their sufficiency in occupational settings.
Acknowledgements: supported by NIOSH OH008282, NORA 92700Y,
7th Framework EU: FP7-NMP-2007.
Primary author
Dr
Anna Shvedova
(West Virginia University, USA)
