Nanomaterial impacts on the gastrointestinal microbiome.

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Recent technological advances have led to various nanomaterials being developed for use in food, medicine, electronics, fuels, consumer products, etc. Because of these innovations, humans are increasingly being exposed to significant amounts of these nanomaterials, specifically via food and food-packaging. Ingestion of nanomaterials has consequential impacts on the gastrointestinal tract and leads to interactions with the gut microflora. The nanomaterials most commonly found in food, food pigments, drinks, food packaging, toothpaste, toothbrushes, e-cigarettes and even baby bottles and pacifiers, include zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs), titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs), silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and nanosilica (SiO2). Based on the minimum and maximum concentrations of these nanomaterials permitted in food and related products, our plan is to conduct in-vitro and in-vivo studies to evaluate their impact on the gut microbiome. Nanomaterials are powerful industrial materials and there has been rapid growth for their use in consumer products, chemical, biochemical and other industries. Despite these benefits of nanomaterials, the environmental impact and effects on human health through gastrointestinal exposure and other means are poorly understood. The aim of this research program is to perform fundamental research and investigations surrounding the impact of nanomaterials on the gastrointestinal microbiome. This study will help us to understand the basic mechanism of these interactions and advance the fundamental knowledge of nanomaterial impacts on environmental and human health. The problems addressed are motivated and defined by the requirements of fundamental chemical, bioengineering, food science, material science and nanotechnology research and technology developments. This research program will provide excellent opportunities for the training of highly qualified personal in these high-priority industrial areas.