New path for DNA damage from nano-particles: study

For Jim Thomson of the Canada-based technology watchdog ETC Group, the findings “expand significantly the hurdles that any theoretical nano-safety assessment would need to clear.”

His views were echoed by the researchers themselves and experts not involved in the study.

“What it tells me is that the precaution with which some scientists and regulators say we should proceed is the right way to go,” said Vyvyan Howard, a pathologist at the University of Ulster who founded the Journal of Nanotoxicology.

But the newly uncovered mechanism holds promise too, these and others experts said.

“The first exciting question is, can we deliver novel therapies across barriers without having to cross them?” said Ashley Blom, an orthopaedic surgeon and professor at the University of Bristol. “There are also implications as to how nano-particles that we all have in our bodies might act across membranes - small particles like prions and viruses may use some of these mechanisms.

“This opens up a whole new field of research,” he added.

Prion diseases occur when a mutated form of the prion protein runs amok, destroying brain cells.

When considering the safety of nano-particles, one must distinguish between medical and broader industrial applications, said Howard.

New drugs are carefully tested, reducing the chances of widespread harm. And even if nano-delivery and imaging systems turn out not to be risk-free, that does not necessarily mean they shouldn't be used.

“Depending on the kind of disease you have, you will accept some very nasty therapies,” such as a chemotherapy for cancer, he said.

“But there is a world of difference between accepting a therapy under informed consent, and involuntary exposure,” he added, pointing out most industrial uses are not regulated at all.

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