A recent study conducted by several British laboratories and a group known as Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies has found that mice injected with carbon nanotubes experience physical effects similar to mice that have been injected with asbestos, including severe inflammation and cancer-like lesions.
The small, thin nanotubes are comprised of lightweight carbon fibers and, when injected into the abdomens of mice, produce the same biological effects as mice that were exposed to deadly asbestos.
Nanotubes are being hailed as an incredible medical and scientific breakthrough. Most recently, medical scientists have explored the possibility of injecting nanotubes into humans to serve as a method of medication delivery. Nanotubes are also used in computer display parts, bicycle components, automobile bumpers, and sports equipment, such as golf clubs and tennis rackets, because of the tubes lightweight structure.
Presently, only some nanotechnology manufacturers require their workers to wear approved breathing apparatuses, but the current risk for exposure is still greatest for these workers and other professionals who handle the nanotubes during the manufacturing phases.
If indeed similar to asbestos, it is imperative new methods be initiated to contain these fibers. Microscopic asbestos fibers, which are of similar length and width as nanotubes, easily become lodged in the pleural lining of the lungs if inhaled. Over time these fibers cause a sustained inflammation of the inner body tissue, causing a harmful scar tissue to grow and eventually, laying the groundwork for mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma.com commends the current research being conducted in the potential dangers of nanotubes and nanotechnology. It is our hope that through continual investigation into these areas, science will emerge with safe methods for the manufacturer and containment of potentially cancer-causing nanotube fibers.
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