Breakdown of Carbon Nanotubes in Humans

A team of Swedish and American scientists have discovered a process in which the human body can break down carbon nanotubes into water and carbon dioxide. Previously believed to be biopersistent (unable to be disabled by the body), nanotubes were thought to contribute to toxicity and tissue damage as a result of their longevity. Recent findings on the study of bacteria-neutralizing endogenous myeloperoxidase (MPO) – located in neutrophils – have uncovered the enzyme’s ability to dismantle carbon nanotubes into water and carbon dioxide. The resulting compounds have shown no propensity to cause toxicity or inflammation in mice. This is important in both the safety standards of nanotube manufacturing and in the medical field.

As a result of this finding, carbon nanotubes have additional potential for applications in applied medicine. Made of tubular patterns of single layers of carbon atoms, nanotubes are prized for their structural support, low mass, and unique heat-conductive and electrical capabilities. Previously considerations for implantable devices and drug delivery technologies can now proceed with a means to ensure nanotube technologies will present minimal toxicity.
I found this article interesting because nanotubes have such exceptional properties and are going to be a vital component in the next generation of medicine. Drugs and prosthetics are likely to rely heavily on carbon nanotubes, especially if they can be rendered nontoxic.

I found this article at http://www.popsci.com/science/article/2010-04/enzyme-blood-cells-breaks-down-carbon-nanotubes-paving-way-nano-delivered-drugs

- Scott Blasczyk, VTPP 435-502