Nanotoxicology: Toxicity and Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials *Equal contribution

Advancements in nanotechnology have led to the increased use of nanomaterials (NMs) in diverse fields including chromatographic techniques. Due to their small size, NMs offer enormously high surface area and more reactivity and behave differently compared to its bulk form. Although, the changes in properties due to nanomaterialization offer several advantages, the same unique properties also raise concerns of adverse effects on human health and the environment. The intended as well as unintended exposure to different types of nanoparticles (NPs) may produce severe toxicological effects. There is ample data showing the toxicological effects of NPs. However, contradiction among different studies does not allow us to come to a general conclusion about the toxicity potential of NPs. On the other hand, unlike other chemicals, there are no regulatory guidelines available to recommend the safety evaluation of novel NPs before approving them for marketing. In this chapter, we discuss the emergence of nanotechnology and its role in different biomedical and industrial applications including chromatography. A brief introduction to the in vitro nanotoxicology studies is provided. Moreover, a variety of in vivo studies carried out with some of the industrially relevant NPs is given with emphasis on NMs used for chromatographic applications. Thereafter, we discuss target organ toxicity studies carried out with various NPs including the inhalational and dermal toxicity studies. Various carcinogenicity and genotoxicity concerns associated with the use of NMs are provided. The peculiar pharmacological and toxicological properties of NPs are governed by their physicochemical properties. A general discussion on the factors affecting NPs-induced toxicity and how to mitigate those issues along with their mechanistic profile is given. In addition, dilemma over the regulation of various NMs framework for drafting guidelines is discussed. In conclusion, the nanotechnology-driven industrial growth requires a careful understanding of multiple health hazards associated with the use of NMs, which may benefit the overall growth of economy.