Nanoparticles - relevance of size shape chemistry and topography for inflammatory response

Important results from the project

The ubiquitous presence of nanoparticles together with increasing evidence linking them to negative health effects points towards the need to assess toxicological potential as well as promoting safe design and use of nanomaterials. In the present project we have specifically focused on the field of biomaterial science by looking at how the size and morphology of calcium phosphate particles (used as a biomaterial) affects the inflammatory system.

Expected long term effects

The risks versus benefits of using nanotechnology in ´everyday´ materials need to be evaluated in order to understand and decrease the associated health hazards. The distinctive chemistry and physical structure of each nanomaterial will determine its biocompatibility. The aim of this project was therefore to evaluate engineered nanoparticles and their impact on the immune response. Our results clearly show (both in vitro and in vivo) not just the importance of size but also how morphology can have a radical effect on the inflammatory response.

Approach and implementation

Nanoparticles were manufactured in a reproducible way and characterized (size, shape, surface chemistry and topography) in order to draw correct conclusions when evaluating inflammatory response upon particular exposure. The immune system has not been trained to respond to these kinds of engineered nanoparticles. However, how it will react against them determines the developments on the use of nanoparticles and their toxicological impact. Our experiments show a broad range of results as a function of size and shape and a span of immune responses from absent to acute inflammation.