Impact of nanoparticles on aquatic environments
The 'Engineered nanoparticle impact on aquatic environments: Structure, activity and toxicology' (ENNSATOX) project was established to find out how certain silicon-, zinc- and titanium-based nanoparticles interact with natural water and aquatic life. These particles may be released into water accidentally or intentionally, so it is important that any associated public and environmental health issues are investigated. Researchers have developed various cost-effective tools and methods to examine the short- and long-term risks of nanoparticle exposure on aquatic life. Biological systems like cell membranes and other cellular components were analysed along with whole cells and algae. Crustaceans and zebra fish also served as larger biological subjects. Researchers specifically looked at how the biological activity of the nanoparticles was affected by their electrical charge, their tendency to clump together and how they dissolve in water. One finding, for example, is that zinc oxide nanoparticles target certain cell membrane proteins involved in regulating the heartbeat of mammals. The project team created a model that can predict the impact of certain classes of nanoparticles on the environment, which reduces the need for expensive tests. Other models are able to predict the effect of nanoparticles on key life forms in riverine, estuarine and seawater environments. ENNSATOX researchers say the project results are indispensable to environmental protection agencies. They should be valuable for risk assessments, prevention strategies and policymaking. This means that other government agencies and statutory bodies throughout the EU as well as commercial and academic role players should also benefit from the project.
