Silver nanoparticles: applications and toxic risks to human health and environment

Abstract

It is estimated that of all the nanomaterials used in consumer products, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) currently have the highest degree of commercialization. They are used in electronics, clothing, paints, cosmetic, bactericides, bio-fungicides, biomedical applications, in the medical-pharmaceutical industry and food industry. Therefore, it is extremely necessary that products made with nanoparticles as well as their applications are safe for the health and the environment. Some studies have shown that the intrinsic toxicity of AgNPs depend on a range of factors such as, size, shape, surface area, surface charge, solubility and state of agglomeration. In addition, a number of in vitro studies indicate that AgNPs are toxic to mammalian cells. Furthermore, inflammatory, oxidative and genotoxic consequences are associated with AgNPs exposure. This paper shows a global view of the main applications of AgNPs, their routes of exposure, toxic effects and toxicity mechanisms involved.