Nano-ecotoxicology of natural and engineered nanomaterials for microorganisms

This chapter focuses on the nano-ecotoxicology of natural and engineered nanomaterials (NMs) in relation to microorganisms. Starting with mobility, bioavailability, and degradability of NMs in the environment, the chapter moves on to discuss general considerations of NM toxicity and ecotoxicity. The chapter then focuses on comet and micronucleus assays, including the K micronuclei and Ames tests and high-throughput screening and current status in related areas. Many reports indicate that NMs induce the formation of reactive oxygen species in cells and consequent inflammatory, mutagenic, or cellular death can occur. The physiological pathways of nanometals are poorly understood, and developments in this area are delayed by a lack of methods for measuring nanoparticles in natural conditions. The assays and results presented in the chapter highlight the need to investigate possible scenarios of interaction between NMs and the surrounding microenvironment.