"Introduction of NEDO project: Evaluating Risks Associated with Manufactured Nanomaterials" 

Toshihiko Myojo¹, Isamu Tanaka¹, Junko Nakanishi²

¹University of Occupational and Environmental Health Japan
²National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology

 3rd International Symposium on Nanotechnology, Occupational and Environmental Health (Taipei 2007/8/30 )

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Abstract

As for toxicity tests, we are adopting "Biaxial Approach" that integrates in vitro tests and in vivo test including continuous inhalation tests using rat. It enables us to cover a wide range of nanomaterials. That is, we will examine the toxicity of a few representative nanomaterials such as C60 and a product of CNTs in detail with in vivo test, while a variety of nanomaterials will be tested in vitro in order to evaluate the relative toxicity of the material. While the exposure route of the most concern is via inhalation, we will also examine the toxicity via skin. For conducting toxicity test of nanomaterials, we have developed the methods for preparing the test samples and characterized rigorously in addition to the materials as purchased. We have started in vitro tests and also administered several nanomaterials to rats by intratracheal instillation. We will soon start inhalation study for aerosolized nanomaterials using rats.

Keywords

risk assessment, fullerene, carbon nanotube, in vitro test, in vivo test