TOXICOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF CARBON NANOTUBES

Abstract

Introduction. The study analyzes the published literature data on key properties of one of the most important nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes. Carbon nanoparticles have unique mechanical, electrical and thermal properties and are widely used in scientific research, industry and medicine. Nanotechnology today is the most promising direction in the development of world science. Nanomaterials have caused a step forward in many industries and are used in our overall life. Carbon nanotubes are one of the priority types of nanomaterials. They are multifunctional materials that are actively studied due to their unique physical and chemical properties. They exist in various forms and can be chemically modified by functional groups of biomolecules. CNT have unique mechanical, electrical and thermal properties and are widely used in various industries. Nanotubes are a promising nanomaterial for medical use due to their really high biocompatibility with blood, bones, cartilages and soft tissues. They can be used to ­create artificial heart valves, for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, as well as for the transport of proteins, antigens, genes, vaccines and medicinal substances into a cell. This material has a wide range of applications for biological and medical use. Among them there are visualization of molecular, cellular and tissue structures; construction of biosensors and electrodes; targeted delivery of various substances; and the use in radiation and photothermal therapies. Due to everyday increase of nanomaterial use, less attention is paid to the possible negative effects of nanoparticles on environment and on people’s health as a whole. Small size, specific structure, large surface area, and chemical composition alert of possible toxic effects on the human body. It was demonstrated that depending on the route of administration and the dose, body carbon nanotubes can be harmful to human body. Thus it is necessary to study the toxicological properties of carbon nanotubes their intake to the body.

The aim of the study – to analyze modern literature sources on the peculiarities of the toxicological effects of carbon nanotubes

Conclusions. The current small amount of research in this area suggests that nanomaterials can be toxic. Therefore, the prospects for widespread use necessitate the continuation of research on the specifics of their impact on human health.