Differences and similarities between carbon nanotubes and asbestos fibers during mesothelial carcinogenesis: Shedding light on fiber entry mechanism

摘要: The emergence of nanotechnology represents an important milestone, as it opens the way to a broad spectrum applications for nanomaterials in fields engineering, industry and medicine. One example that have potential widespread use is carbon nanotubes, which tubular structure made graphene sheets. However, there been concerns they may pose health risk due their similarities asbestos, namely high biopersistence needle-like structure. We recently found despite these similarities, nanotubes asbestos differ certain aspects, such mechanism entry into mesothelial cells. In study, we showed non-functionalized, multi-walled enter cells by directly piercing through cell membrane diameter- rigidity-dependent manner, whereas mainly enters process endocytosis, independent fiber diameter. this review, discuss key differences, well between fibers nanotubes. also summarize previous reports regarding nanotube non-phagocytic As crucial step carcinogenesis, believe comprehensive study on differences will provide clues safer manufacture strict regulation characteristics, diameter, surface properties, length rigidity.