Particle Toxicology

Exposure to particles in industry and mining and from accidental anthropogenic sources constitutes an ongoing threat. Most recently nanoparticles arising from advances in technology are exposing a wider population to pathogenic stimuli. The effects of inhaled particles are no longer confined to the lung as nanoparticles have the potential to translocate to the bloodstream, the brain, and other target sites. The new questions posed by nanoparticles underscore the importance of interdisciplinary research and exchange and highlight the need for new collaborations among disciplines in medicine, toxicology, chemistry, and material sciences.

Particle Toxicology brings together the state of the science in particle physico-chemistry, cell biology, and toxicology in a single volume. While organized around the classical toxicology paradigm of exposure – dose – response, the book is unique in its emphasis on mechanistic toxicology. Preparing the reader with a brief historical overview and a conceptual framework for particle research, the book provides reviews on the mechanisms and properties of pathogenic particles and their effects on target cells at various sites in the body. The text describes how adverse effects are a consequence of deposition, translocation, and the complex issue of ?dose? dominates. Contributions from leading researchers address particle-associated pro-inflammatory effects and inflammatory signaling, cellular and extracellular oxidative and nitrosative stress, particulate interactions in the pulmonary, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems, as well as genotoxic effects. Exemplar particles include quartz, asbestos, particulate material and nanoparticles. The book also covers mathematical modeling and human studies as avenues for future research.