L. Manodori

Hydrodynamic chromatography coupled to single-particle ICP-MS for the simultaneous characterization of AgNPs and determination of dissolved Ag in plasma and blood of burn patients

AbstractSilver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are increasingly used in medical devices as innovative antibacterial agents, but no data are currently available on their chemical transformations and fate in vivo in the human body, particularly on their potential to reach the circulatory system. To study the processes involving AgNPs in human plasma and blood, we developed an analytical method based on hydrodynamic chromatography (HDC) coupled to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in single-particle detection mode. An innovative algorithm was implemented to deconvolute the signals of dissolved Ag and AgNPs and to extrapolate a multiparametric characterization of the particles in the same chromatogram. From a single injection, the method provides the concentration of dissolved Ag and the distribution of AgNPs in terms of hydrodynamic diameter, mass-derived diameter, number and mass concentration. This analytical approach is robust and suitable to study quantitatively the dynamics and kinetics of AgNPs in complex biological fluids, including processes such as agglomeration, dissolution and formation of protein coronas. The method was applied to study the transformations of AgNP standards and an AgNP-coated dressing in human plasma, supported by micro X-ray fluorescence (μXRF) and micro X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (μXANES) speciation analysis and imaging, and to investigate, for the first time, the possible presence of AgNPs in the blood of three burn patients treated with the same dressing. Together with our previous studies, the results strongly support the hypothesis that the systemic mobilization of the metal after topical administration of AgNPs is driven by their dissolution in situ. Graphical AbstractSimplified scheme of the combined analytical approach adopted for studying the chemical dynamics of AgNPs in human plasma/blood

Regulatory perspectives on nanotechnology in nutraceuticals

The global nutraceutical product market is continuously growing, and nanotechnology represents an innovative way to effectively increase oral bioaccessibility and bioavailability of active ingredients, preserving them from the digestive process. In spite of benefits, there is an urgent need for regulatory systems capable of managing risks associated with nanofoods and the use of nanotechnology in the food industry. In this chapter, current international and European regulatory aspects are addressed. Special attention is given to the European Union regulatory framework, with the upcoming new definition of nanomaterials and the subsequent modification of existing regulations and declaration of new laws. To comply with existing directives and regulations for marketing of new nanotechnology-based products, European Food Safety Authority guidelines for assessing potential risks from nanotechnologies in the food sector are described.