Nanoparticles in Cosmetics

Can Nanoparticles Cause Disease?

April 6, 2008

Scientists are currently researching the role nanoparticles may play in disease conditions such as hardening of the arteries and the formation of kidney stones. Nanoparticles are a thousand times smaller than bacteria, but recent advances in microscopy have allowed researchers to watch them interact with bodily cells in the body. Nanotechnology presents both intriguing possibilities and troubling unknowns. The technology is already being used in commercial products such as flame resistant materials and cosmetics. Because of their size, nanoparticles can easily gain entry to the body, and their long-term effects are unknown. Some nanoparticles cause inflammation when injected into the blood vessels of animals, an early step in the development of atherosclerosis. Kidneys stones start as tiny calcifications which later become larger; it is possible that nanoparticles could cause the initial calcification. Sources: Science Daily April 2, 2008