Nanotox

The toxicity of nanoparticles resulting from the combustion of renewable raw materials was investigated. The combustion process that can be expected by the average consumer through the use of small combustion plants in private households was simulated as a model, i.e. both optimal and sub-optimal combustion processes were simulated.
The toxic effect after inhalation was investigated using a model system in which nanoparticles were directed onto in vitro cultured human A549 lung cells. For this exposure, the cells were cultured on semipermeable membranes, which allow the supply of nutrients from below, while a gas stream with the nanoparticles was applied to the top. The response of the cells, e.g. the triggering of inflammatory processes, was investigated both at the gene expression level via quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and at the protein level via the release of inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-6, interleukin-8). Cell damage was investigated by the release of a naturally intracellular enzyme, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH assay), which indicates impairment of cell membrane function.
The commercially available ovens investigated within the scope of the project were selected on the basis of the white list of the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control. They were characterised by pre-optimised combustion conditions, so that no toxic effects of nanoparticles on the cells could be observed at short exposure times of up to two hours. For the future, longer and/or repeated exposures are envisaged as well as the use of furnaces that are more representative for the market.