Are nanoparticles dangerous?
Previous studies have shown that nanoparticles can penetrate human cells. And a study by BlueScope Steel concluded that when applied to roofing material and subjected to UV light, titanium dioxide nanoparticles operated as potent ‘photo-catalysts’, accelerating the production of hydroxyl radicals. Hydroxl radicals are known to damage protein and DNA in the body. Georgina Miller, a spokesperson for Friends of the Earth Australia (FoE), said the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) needs to bring in mandatory safety testing for sunscreens containing nanoparticles. FoE is also calling for the introduction of labelling of nanoparticle content on sunscreens to give consumers a choice. After reviewing the scientific literature in 2009 the TGA concluded that nanoparticles do not penetrate far enough into the body to do damage. Miller said that now bodily penetration of Zinc 68 has been shown in these two studies, the TGA needs to rethink its position.
