Nanotechnology, which is revolutionizing cosmetics, food, medicine, sport and construction, could pose a health risk similar to that of asbestos according to scientists, if inhaled in sufficient quantity.
The Edinburgh research published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology shows that ultra-small nanotubes can cause cancer.
Different types of nanotubes were injected into the bodies of laboratory mice.
They found that, like asbestos, the long, straight fibres caused inflammation and lesions that can lead to cancer.
Not all fibers were found to be dangerous. Shorter nanotubes were removed from the lungs by the body’s scavenger cells but longer fibres were too big to be taken away and became dangerous.
‘Our results suggest the need for further research and great caution before introducing such products into the market if long-term harm is to be avoided,’ said Professor Donaldson.
Carbon nanotubes are made from graphite and are 100 times stronger than steel.
The fibres, invented in the 1970s, are just a couple of millionths of a millimeter thick, lightweight and excellent at conducting heat and electricity.
They are being used to make stronger concrete, lightweight tennis rackets, sailing ship masts, bicycles and golf clubs.
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