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Published online 18 August 2009 | 460, 937 (2009) | doi:10.1038/460937a

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Nanoparticle safety in doubt

Lung damage in Chinese factory workers sparks health fears.

Natasha Gilbert

Claims that seven Chinese factory workers developed severe lung damage from inhaling nanoparticles are stoking the debate over the environmental-health effects of nanotechnology.

A paper published in the European Respiratory Journal claims to be the first to document cases of ill health caused by nanoparticles in humans ("Y.

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  • Nanotechnology scientists' enthusiasm for discovering its groundbreaking applications regrettably overshadowed the importance of the precautionary priciple--to first do no harm. In 2006, less than 2.5 percent of research funds for nanotech were spent to look at health and safety issues.
    http://www.ecohearth.com/eco-news/eco-op-ed/282-nanotechnology-another-blank-check-for-science-.html

    • 19 Aug, 2009
    • Posted by: Marita Prandoni

  • Exposure of Engineered nanoparticles and Nuclear radiations beyond certain limit is always danagours. Workers are always the victims of it.In many countries there is no regulating authority to control the nano business industry.Many of the scientists are also not even aware of the importance of the precautionary priciple. Dr Joseph Makkolil

    • 20 Aug, 2009
    • Posted by: Joseph Makkolil

  • properties ( both physical and chemical)of matter in nanoscale are size dependent. Interaction of living tissues with matter has to be studied systematically at nanoscale. Nanotoxicology has to be given a priority area of research. Case studies as reported have to be analysed to arrive at some general conclusions
    Dr V P N Nampoori, International School of Photonics, Cochin University, India

    • 05 Sep, 2009
    • Posted by: V P N Nampoori