Nanomedicine Research Journal

Nanomedicine Research Journal

A review on the importance of standardization in nanotoxicology for promoting safe and sustainable nanotechnology: Benefits, challenges, and solutions

Document Type : Review Paper

Authors
1 Food Toxicology Research Group, Research Center of Food Technology and Agricultural Products, Standard Research Institute, Karaj, Iran
2 Department of Basic sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The growing application of nanotechnology across different industries necessitates a comprehensive understanding of nanomaterial toxicity to ensure safety and sustainability. Despite its transformative potential, the unique properties of nanomaterials pose significant health and environmental risks, necessitating the emergence of nanotoxicology as a critical discipline. Nanotoxicology investigates the safety and impacts of nanomaterials, and its advancement depends heavily on the establishment of robust standardization practices. Standardization delivers multiple advantages, including global harmonization of safety protocols, enhanced reproducibility of toxicity studies, and facilitation of international trade by aligning regulatory frameworks. It fosters public trust by ensuring rigorous evaluation of nanoparticles and encourages innovation by providing predictable guidelines for developers. Moreover, standardized methodologies promote collaboration across disciplines and geographies, advancing research and enabling the sustainable integration of nanotechnology into diverse industries. However, several challenges impede progress, including the diverse nature of nanomaterials, complex biological interactions, and inconsistent regulatory frameworks. Additionally, the lack of standardized methods for long-term risk assessments and limited accessibility to advanced characterization tools present significant barriers. Overcoming these challenges requires interdisciplinary collaboration, investment in advanced testing and calibration techniques, and international cooperation to harmonize regulations. Ethical considerations and transparent stakeholder communication are also crucial to building public confidence. This review focuses on the benefits, challenges and solutions in the field of nanotoxicology standardization and calls for a concerted global effort to overcome barriers, setting a strong foundation for a safer and more sustainable nanotechnology future.
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