A critical review of advances in reproductive toxicity of common nanomaterials to Caenorhabditis elegans and influencing factors. (1st August 2022) - Yao, Yongshuai
Abstract: In recent decades, nanotechnology has rapidly developed. Therefore, there is growing concern about the potential environmental risks of nanoparticles (NPs). Caenorhabditis elegans ( C. elegans ) has been used as a powerful tool for studying the potential ecotoxicological impacts of nanomaterials from the whole animal level to single cell level, especially in the area of reproduction. In this review, we discuss the reproductive toxicity of common nanomaterials in C. elegans, such as metal-based nanomaterial (silver nanoparticles (NPs), gold NPs, zinc oxide NPs, copper oxide NPs), carbon-based nanomaterial (graphene oxide, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, fullerene nanoparticles), polymeric NPs, silica NPs, quantum dots, and the potential mechanisms involved. This insights into the toxic effects of existing nanomaterials on the human reproductive system. In addition, we summarize how the physicochemical properties (e.g., size, charge, surface modification, shape) of nanomaterials influence their reproductive toxicity. Overall, using C. elegans as a platform to develop rapid detection techniques and prediction methods for nanomaterial reproductive toxicity is expected to reduce the gap between biosafety evaluation of nanomaterials and their application. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: The reproductive toxicity caused by some QDs is passed on to offspring. Improving physicochemical properties are expected to solve ecological problems. Effects of biogeochemical transformations will be the next focus of research.