Immunotoxicity of metal oxide and metal nanoparticles and animal models to evaluate immunotoxicity of nanoparticles

Abstract

Since metal (silver and gold) and metal oxide (TiO2, ZnO, SiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) are widely used in diagnostics, therapeutics, and commercial products, specialized immuno-toxicity studies are necessary to ensure their safe use in humans. In this article, we review the immunological toxicity of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), including metal oxide and metal NPs, and suggest animal models of immunological disease suited to study the immunological effects of NPs. Administration of NPs at subtoxic doses in animals with a background of immunological diseases, especially those with allergic or inflammatory diseases, will accelerate our understanding of the precise immunotoxicity and immunestimulatory effects of NPs following real-life exposures.