Nanotoxicology and safety evaluation of nanomedicines

Abstract

In the last years, advanced toxicological methods and new research approaches have been proposed to improve and refine safety assessment of nanomaterials. High-throughput technologies, molecular markers, molecular imaging, and other tools originated from advanced research in nanotoxicology offer an exciting opportunity to improve the efficacy and predictivity of toxicity testing for candidate nanomedicines. Testing based on these novel research technologies can be conducted at low, clinically relevant doses focusing on what really represents an “adverse” response or a reliable indicator of adverse health outcome. When applied to candidate nanomedicines, this modern vision of toxicity testing can valuably contribute to address safety concerns, reduce regulatory uncertainties, expedite drug development, and sustain translation of nanotechnology enabled products to the clinic.