On 26 May, the University of Calgary published a press release on a new study focusing on “buckyballs” hazardous effects on human health. “Buckyballs” are nano-sized particles and their scientific name is carbon-60 molecules. According to the paper currently published in the Advance Online Publication of Nature Nanotechnology journal, those particles are able to enter membrane cells.

According to biochemist Peter Tiedelman from Calgary University, those particles can cross the blood-brain barrier and alter cells function.

While "buckyballs" are already produced on a commercial scale and can be potentially used for the production of industrial materials, drug delivery systems, fuel cells and cosmetics, those results raise important questions about toxicity for human health and environment.

Besides, a scientific paper on fullerenes, which can be made with "buckyballs", shows clear evidence that it causes brain damage in fish. Also, there is scientific evidence highlighting that inhaling carbon nanotubes, which can also be made with "buckyballs" as well, results in lung damage similar to that caused by asbestos.

In line with this results, Tieldeman calls for more research on nano-particles and induced brain damages effects.

For more information:

  Consult the paper "Computer simulation study of fullerene translocation through lipid membranes" by Jirasak Wong-Ekkabut, Svetlana Baoukina, Wannapong Triampo, I-Ming Tang, D. Peter Tieleman and Luca Monticelli on Advance Online Publication of Nature Nanotechnology
  Read the press release