Mechanisms of Fibre Toxicity (cross-Unit project)

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A major research focus of the MRC Toxicology Unit aims to uncover how particles used for modern manufacturing interact with the body and how to help prevent their harmful effects. Some of these particles (e.g. carbon nanotubes) are similar in their physical and biological properties to asbestos, a well-known cause of human lung disease. The most severe illnesses associated with asbestos fibre exposure are asbestosis, malignant mesothelioma and lung cancer, and they usually manifest themselves after 20-40 years of latency. There is rising concern that nanoparticles may drive toxic effects leading to the onset of similar asbestos-related diseases. By applying cutting-edge technologies to this toxicological question the aim is to identify potential key drivers of particle toxicity and apply this knowledge to inform ‘safe by design’ of nanoparticles, thereby reducing their potential long-term adverse effects.