In vivo biology and toxicology of fullerenes and their derivatives.

TY - JOUR

T1 - In vivo biology and toxicology of fullerenes and their derivatives.

AU - Nielsen, Gunnar Damgård

AU - Roursgaard, Martin

AU - Jensen, Keld Alstrup

AU - Poulsen, Steen Seier

AU - Larsen, Søren Thor

PY - 2008

Y1 - 2008

N2 - Fullerenes represent a group of nanoparticles discovered in 1985. They are spherical molecules consisting entirely of carbon atoms (C(x)) to which side chains can be added, furnishing compounds with widely different properties. Fullerenes interact with biological systems, for example, by enzyme inhibition, causing phototoxic reactions, being scavengers of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, in addition to being able to initiate free radical reactions. Absorption, distribution and excretion strongly depend on the properties of the side chains. The pristine C(60) has a very long biological half-life, whereas the most water-soluble derivatives are eliminated from the exposed animals within weeks. A long biological half-life raises concern about bioaccumulation and long-term effects. In general, the acute oral, dermal and airway toxicity is low. However, few relevant experimental studies of repeated dose toxicity, reproductive toxicity and carcinogenic effect are available. The data suggest that direct DNA damaging effects are low, but formation of reactive oxygen species may cause inflammation and genetic damage. Apparently, it is dose-dependent whether a beneficial or an adverse effect occurs.

AB - Fullerenes represent a group of nanoparticles discovered in 1985. They are spherical molecules consisting entirely of carbon atoms (C(x)) to which side chains can be added, furnishing compounds with widely different properties. Fullerenes interact with biological systems, for example, by enzyme inhibition, causing phototoxic reactions, being scavengers of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, in addition to being able to initiate free radical reactions. Absorption, distribution and excretion strongly depend on the properties of the side chains. The pristine C(60) has a very long biological half-life, whereas the most water-soluble derivatives are eliminated from the exposed animals within weeks. A long biological half-life raises concern about bioaccumulation and long-term effects. In general, the acute oral, dermal and airway toxicity is low. However, few relevant experimental studies of repeated dose toxicity, reproductive toxicity and carcinogenic effect are available. The data suggest that direct DNA damaging effects are low, but formation of reactive oxygen species may cause inflammation and genetic damage. Apparently, it is dose-dependent whether a beneficial or an adverse effect occurs.

U2 - 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2008.00266.x

DO - 10.1111/j.1742-7843.2008.00266.x

M3 - Journal article

C2 - 18684229

SN - 1742-7835

VL - 103

SP - 197

EP - 208

JO - Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

JF - Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

IS - 3

ER -