網羅的遺伝子発現解析による工業ナノ材料の生体影響評価の役割

概要

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The industrial applications of manufactured nanomaterials (MNs) are expected to be extended to next-generation devices. On the other hand, concern over the effects of MNs on human health has risen owing to advances in the development of nanotechnology. Indeed, little is known about the mechanism of action of MNs. The New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization of Japan (NEDO) launched a new research project entitled “Evaluating risks associated with manufactured nanomaterials (P10024)” in 2006. The project demonstrated no adverse effects of MN inhalation exposure on the rat lungs, as determined by histopathological examination and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid analysis. In parallel with this research, we have performed comparative gene expression analysis using DNA microarrays in rat lungs after inhalation exposure (4 weeks, 6 hours a day, 5 days a week) to single-wall nanotubes (SWCNTs), multiwall nanotubes (MWCNTs), C60 fullerene and ultrafine nickel oxide particles (Uf-NiO) as reference materials for the purpose of gaining insights into the molecular events following the exposure. In this review, we introduce an outline of the project, and discuss about the significance of comparative gene expression analysis for evaluation of the biological effects of MNs.