Engineered nanostructured materials: benefits and risks

Engineered nanostructured materials have widespread applications in multiple fields ranging from diagnosis to treatment of diseases. These materials are used in bioimaging, drug delivery and beauty care products. The preparation of nanostructured materials does not involve specific methods but different types of materials are synthesized by various strategies to reach a nanoscale dimension, so their range of effect will also vary depending upon the material and strategy involved. In recent years, nanostructured materials and their effect on human health has become a debatable issue. The conclusion is that most nanostructured materials have toxicity issues with one or more cell lines or organisms, though very few are lethal at very low concentration. This review updates the information on a wide range of nanostructured materials and studies showing associated health benefits and risks.