Nanotechnology in water treatment

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Electrospun nanofibers and nanobiocides show potential in the improvement of water filtration membranes. Biofouling of membranes caused by the bacterial load in water reduces the quality of drinking water and has become a major problem. Several studies showed inhibition of these bacteria after exposure to nanofibers with functionalized surfaces. Nanobiocides such as metal nanoparticles and engineered nanomaterials are successfully incorporated into nanofibers showing high antimicrobial activity and stability in water.

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The risk assessment of nanoparticles and nanomaterials is of key importance for the continuous development in the new field of nanotechnology. Humans are increasingly being exposed to nanoparticles and nanomaterials, placing stress on the development and validation of reproducible toxicity tests. Tests currently used include genotoxicity and cytotoxicity tests, and in vivo toxicity models. The unique characteristics of nanoparticles and nanomaterials are responsible for their toxicity and interaction with biological macromolecules within the human body. This may lead to the development of diseases and clinical disorders. A loss in cell viability and structure can also occur in exposed tissues as well as inflammation and granuloma formation. The future of nanotechnology depends on the responsible assessment of nanoparticles and nanomaterials.


[link to en.wikipedia.org]

CG

edited to add-

Food industry slams genetically engineered wheat
8 November 2010




"The problem I see with GE food is that it is going to contaminate all the farmers who produce their own organic food. When the genie is out of the bottle, it’s out of the bottle and that is a real worry when you want to give your customers food that hasn’t been genetically modified,” he said.

Author of the Spliced Bread report, Claire Parfitt, said the key danger in injecting foreign genes into a seed extended beyond market concerns and into the human health realm.

“Australia is the global testing ground for genetically engineered wheat,” she said.

“But human consumption tests haven’t been done. What we do know is that feeding trials with animals have shown negative results, including enlarged liver, higher levels of allergic reactions and reduced fertility.”

[link to news.nabou.com]