Overview of nanomaterials and cellular interactions

Abstract

In the last three decades, there has been wide progress in nanomaterials development, and several studies are being performed to show its biological effects and cellular interaction for biomedical applications. Due to the exponential increase in nanomaterial diversity, production, and possibilities of applications in different areas, there is an important concern about its toxicity for humans, animals, and ecosystems. There is a great effort to minimize experimental assays in animals, and this is a commendable initiative. Several alternatives in vitro assays are available; however, several new protocols have been introduced to elucidate the mechanisms of cell-nanomaterial interaction. Wide and fast progress in nanotechnology has been observed. Nonetheless, the nanomaterial interaction with cells or biological systems is still not totally described. In this aspect, this paper is a brief overview of nanomaterials and cellular interactions (nano-bio interaction).