Review abstract
Nature Nanotechnology 2, 469 - 478 (2007)
Published online: 29 July 2007 | doi:10.1038/nnano.2007.223
Subject Categories: Nanoparticles | Nanomedicine
Immunological properties of engineered nanomaterials
Marina A. Dobrovolskaia1 & Scott E. McNeil1
Abstract
Most research on the toxicology of nanomaterials has focused on the effects of nanoparticles that enter the body accidentally. There has been much less research on the toxicology of nanoparticles that are used for biomedical applications, such as drug delivery or imaging, in which the nanoparticles are deliberately placed in the body. Moreover, there are no harmonized standards for assessing the toxicity of nanoparticles to the immune system (immunotoxicity). Here we review recent research on immunotoxicity, along with data on a range of nanotechnology-based drugs that are at different stages in the approval process. Research shows that nanoparticles can stimulate and/or suppress the immune responses, and that their compatibility with the immune system is largely determined by their surface chemistry. Modifying these factors can significantly reduce the immunotoxicity of nanoparticles and make them useful platforms for drug delivery.
- Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory, Advanced Technology Program, SAIC-Frederick, NCI-Frederick, 1050 Boyles St., Bldg. 469, Frederick, Maryland 21702
Correspondence to: Marina A. Dobrovolskaia1 e-mail: marina@mail.nih.gov, e-mail: ncl@ncifcrf.gov
