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Title:

Inhaled carbon nanotubes reach the subpleural tissue in mice

Date:

11/2009

Link to Journal Abstract

Abstract:

Carbon nanotubes are shaped like fibres1 and can stimulate inflammation at the surface of the peritoneum when injected into the abdominal cavity of mice2, raising concerns that inhaled nanotubes3 may cause pleural fibrosis and/or mesothelioma4. Here, we show that multiwalled carbon nanotubes reach the subpleura in mice after a single inhalation exposure of 30 mg m-3 for 6 h. Nanotubes were embedded in the subpleural wall and within subpleural macrophages. Mononuclear cell aggregates on the pleural surface increased in number and size after 1 day and nanotube-containing macrophages were observed within these foci. Subpleural fibrosis unique to this form of nanotubes increased after 2 and 6 weeks following inhalation. None of these effects was seen in mice that inhaled carbon black nanoparticles or a lower dose of nanotubes (1 mg m-3). This work suggests that minimizing inhalation of nanotubes during handling is prudent until further long-term assessments are conducted.

Non-technical Summary:

In this study, mice were exposed to multiwalled carbon nanotubes in a single inhalation exposure for 6 hours and the impact on the subpleural wall and within subpleural macrophages were evaluated.

Content Emphasis

Peer Reviewed Journal Article

Exposure Or Hazard Target

Exposure Pathway

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Paper Type

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