Recent Developments in Nanotechnology and Risk Assessment Strategies for Addressing Public and Environmental Health Concerns

Nanotechnology is a novel emerging technology that allows the manipulation of materials at the scale comparable to the size of a single molecule (i.e., < 100 nm). There have been many new developments in this technology, resulting in complex exposure and health risk implications. Nanotechnology offers major benefits to humankind; however, there is growing concern regarding the potential adverse interactions of engineered nanoparticles at cellular or sub-cellular levels. The nanotech community is therefore experiencing growing calls for legislation to minimize or prevent exposure to nanoparticles. This article focuses on recent developments in nanotechnology including current manufacturing techniques, uses of nanoscale particles, and implications for particle toxicity and human exposure pathways. Current risk assessment methods are reviewed in the context of nanoparticle exposure routes and regulation for human and environmental health protection. This study provides a better understanding of the factors governing risks from nanoparticles and current strategies for protecting environmental and public health.