Easing Concerns About Diamond Nanoparticles and Toxicity

New research has brightened the prospects for using nanodiamonds as drug carriers, implant coatings, nanorobots and other medical applications that take advantage of diamond nanoparticles' attractive properties.

Although diamond in bulk form is inert and biocompatible, nano-materials often behave differently than their bulk counterparts. That led to concern that diamond nanoparticles might have toxic effects on cells

"We have for the first time assessed the cytotoxicity of nanodiamonds ranging in size from 2 to 10 nm," the researchers state, adding that nanodiamonds were not toxic to a variety of different cell types. "These results suggest that nanodiamonds could be ideal for many biological applications in a diverse range of cell types," they add.


SOURCE:
PhysOrg.com

One of the biggest concerns that many people have had with the
use of nanoparticle technology is the possible negative effects on
biological systems, so it's good to see that diamond nanoparticles
have now been shown to be nontoxic and safe for use in humans.


Comments, Opinions?

Could these be used to coat prosthetic implants, i.e. hips and knees ?
If so, it could literally save lives for people that reject these.

I ask about these types of implants, due to their rigidity. Not sure about them functioning on soft implants, hearts, livers and such.

Anyway, very cool find !!

Lex