Nanotoxicity: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

The objective of this article is to document and discuss some aspects of the toxicity of materials of nanometric dimensions in humans, the environment, and the agricultural sector. The results indicate that there are enough scientific articles documenting the toxicity of these materials. However, there are also advantages and potential uses that humans can enjoy in the short time, provided that some relevant considerations are taken that will strengthen the skills of young scientists or technologists. Human resources training and scientific and technological development of nanometric structures should be continued. However, care should be taken in order to not commit historical errors such as those where products were ‘scientifically proven’ like ddt or asbestos which, some years later, had to be removed from the market for its toxicity, carcinogenicity or its side effects.