Size and shape of inhaled asbestos nanofibers may be exclusively responsible for pulmonary fibrosis

5th January, 2024
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Scientific researchers have discovered that the potentially harmful effects of inhaling fibrous nanomaterials (as in asbestos or fiberglass), commonly used in thermal insulation, are linked more to their size and geometrical properties than their chemical nature. They identified that the body's own lung macrophages cannot eliminate the foreign matter if it's too large. This groundbreaking research was conducted by a multinational French-Chinese team, including a chemist from CNRS. Their study was published in Nature Nanotechnology journal, on January 3rd, 2024.

The researchers initially conducted their study using electrochemical nanosensors. They found that when confronted with inert nanofibers longer than 15 microns, lung cells are incapable of containing them wholly within their "digestive" vesicle, eventually resulting in leaked secretions that could harm the alveolar walls. This is the first study that identifies, characterizes, and quantifies this occurrence.

Later experiments with rats also demonstrated continuous unprotected inhalation of such inert fibrous nanomaterials can cause progressive lung damage, potentially leading to fibroma, regardless of the actual nanomaterial type. This revelation raises questions about the safety of using inert nanofiber felts in building construction. Previously thought to be less harmful than asbestos, it appears that these nanofibers could in fact pose the same danger to health for those in direct contact.

More details about the research can be found in the study titled "Nanosensor detection of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species leakage in frustrated phagocytosis of nanofibres," published in Nature Nanotechnology (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41565 023 01575 0 Journal information: Nature Nanotechnology. Provided by CNRS.