Sub-chronic Inhalational Toxicity Studies for Gold Nanoparticles

Abstract

Gold is reported to confer its therapeutic benefits in various ancient civilizations. Gold nanoparticles are extensively used in many fields of biomedical application, and the food and cosmetics industries as well as the automobile industry. As a result of this, the probability of increased exposure of workers to gold nanoparticles has been significantly amplified, although no conclusive information on their cytotoxicity is available. Depending on the therapeutic applications, gold nanoparticles of different shapes and sizes are available. But even a small increase in the concentration of these gold nanoparticles can lead to health hazards and toxic effects in human beings. Gold nanoparticles have a wide range of uses, and due to their small size, it becomes easier for gold nanoparticles to get entry into the respiratory system. So it is pertinent to develop an understanding of their biodistribution and clearance followed by in vivo administration. This chapter describes the therapeutic and toxic effects of gold and gold nanoparticles. Also, the chapter focuses on details of sub-chronic inhalation toxicity studies for gold nanoparticles according to different guidelines together with inhalation toxicity studies carried out to date.