The ecotoxicology of titanium dioxide nanoparticles,an important engineering nanomaterial

Abstract

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO₂) are useful because of their unique physicochemical properties. The wide application of nano-TiO₂ has raised concerns regarding its potential threat to organisms and the environment. Therefore, the production and application of nano-TiO₂ in the global market is summarized in this paper. This review presents the adverse effects of nano-TiO₂ in vivo, including potential exposure routes such as transdermal, oral and inhalative exposure, risk evaluation of nanotoxicity in vitro using bacteria, microorganisms, cells and biological molecules), physicochemical characterization of nano-TiO₂ regarding crystal structure, size, shape, surface characteristics and coatings, and the mechanisms of toxicity of nano-TiO₂ based on environmentally relevant test species and cells. This review aims to fill deficiencies in toxicological research and to facilitate the assessment of the environmental risks by nano-TiO₂ which is conducive to designing safer nanoproducts in our daily life.

• Highlights

• Presented the possible human health hazards related to nano-TiO2 exposure.

• Identified the current research deficiencies in this area.

• Summarized the underlying toxicity mechanisms.

• Summarized the compound toxicity of NPs.