For the first time, the effects of graphene have been tested on humans, considered the 'wonder material' for its revolutionary potential in applications ranging from electronics to clothing, from implantable devices and sensors to 'vehicles' for targeted therapies against cancer and other diseases: in the United Kingdom, 14 volunteers inhaled a particular form of graphene, without showing any short-term negative effects on health.
The study, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology and led by the British Universities of Edinburgh and Manchester, therefore indicates that this nanomaterial could also be further developed in the medical field.
Researchers led by Mark Miller of the University of Edinburgh and Kostas Kostarelos of the University of Manchester used ultrapure graphene oxide, a form of the material that is compatible with water, for the experiment.
The volunteers breathed the graphene for two hours through masks placed on their faces, while they were busy cycling in a specially designed chamber.
The study authors monitored the effects on lung function, blood pressure, coagulation and inflammatory response, then repeated the test a few weeks later.
The results show no adverse health effects on the participants.
Only a very slight influence on the way the blood clots was noted, but the researchers stress that this is a very small effect.
However, further research will be needed to understand the effects of higher doses or other forms of the nanomaterial, as well as prolonged exposure.
“Being able to explore the safety of this unique material with human volunteers is a huge step forward in our understanding of how graphene might affect the body,” says Miller: “Only then can we make the most of nanotechnology safely.” .
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