Through the magnifying glass: The effects of size and shape on the uptake, biodistribution and (eco)toxicity of nanoparticles

Abstract

Although nanoparticles are extensively used in various applications like consumer products and have most probably entered the environment, little is known about the effects of these particles on living organisms. In this thesis, we aim to understand how the size and shape of nanoparticles influence their toxicity. Not only do we compare the toxic effect of these material characteristics over a series of metallic nanoparticles, therewith eliminating the effect of the core-material, but do we also investigate on an individual level where the particles migrate to inside the organism. This thesis aims to obtain a better understanding of the uptake, biodistribution and subsequent toxicity of nanoparticles, moving forward from the “organism as a black box” principle to a more detailed understanding of the harm caused by nanoparticles.