Table 5

Comparison between biological effects of asbestos and CNTs

Cell/tissue response

Comparison

Particle uptake

Demonstrated with both types. Conflicting results with CNTs. Exocytosis found with CNTs, so far not investigated with asbestos.

Cytotoxicity

Both cytotoxic.

DNA damage, mutation, gene interaction

Found with both asbestos and CNTs.

Transfection

Gene transfer is with asbestos. CNT gene knockdown.

Biodistribution

Both types are cleared via the lymphatic system and found in different organs

Inflammation, granulomas, fibrosis

Found with both asbestos and CNTs. Both types show dependence of biological effects with fibre dimensions: bioactivity of long fibres.

Cancer

MM found with both asbestos and CNTs by peritoneal exposure.

Jaurand et al. Particle and Fibre Toxicology 2009 6:16   doi:10.1186/1743-8977-6-16