ABSTRACT
Nanotechnology has been an expanding industry with unlimited applications due to the unique properties of the nanomaterials such as high surface area to volume ratios and surface reactivity. However, hazardous effects of highly reactive engineered nanomaterials to researchers, consumers, and the environment has stifled wide-spread applications in nanomedicine. Thus, the pros and cons of engineered nanomaterials with respect to toxicity need to be thoroughly investigated. The main concern is in the toxicity of the materials and the public perspective to minimize their usages. Nanotoxicity of the nanomaterials can be assessed by primary and secondary assays. Although primary (in vitro) assays are cost effective, secondary (in vivo) assays are more realistic methods. Nanotoxicity of the engineered nanomaterials depends on factors such as size, shape, composition, mode, and dose of administration. However, these concerns can be minimized by administering the right dose and a proper study of the administration, thereby neutralizing the risk associated with engineered nanomaterials, which can promote the safe, sustainable, and responsible use of the rapidly developing area of nanotechnology.
