Conference Description

Nanoscale science, engineering, and technology, collectively referred to as nanotechnology, is the ability to work at the molecular level, atom by atom, to create structures with fundamentally new molecular organization and unique properties. The ability to manipulate matter at the molecular and atomic levels has allowed materials scientists to create an array of new commercial products with a variety of benefits for society. These manufactured nanomaterials can possess novel chemical and physical properties not found in larger bulk forms of the same chemical, such as such as greater catalytic efficiency, increased electrical conductivity, and improved hardness and strength. Some of the same special properties that make nanomaterials useful are also properties that may cause some nanomaterials to pose hazards to humans and the environment, under specific conditions. The potential for manufactured nanomaterials to interact with biological systems in adverse ways is attracting intense interest in the toxicology community.

During the past decade, the ongoing debate about hazards and risks of nanotechnology and its products has grown more and more intense. Whereas application and use are steadily increasing, the knowledge about possible adverse effects of nanomaterials and nanoparticles lags behind this development. The efforts to investigate biological effects, environmentally relevant consequences or societal and ethical problems are only minor, compared to the R&D studies on nano-technological applications. Moreover, the use of nanoparticulate structures directly for drug delivery gives an idea about the possible biological responses to such small structures.

For responsible production and use of nanomaterials and nanoparticles for and in various products, the knowledge about potential biological actions, with regard to a proactive safety research, is very important.

Otherwise, we would miss a historical opportunity for a 'technological revolution' by denying the consequences for health, safety and environment (HSE). If and only if we address hazard and exposure in an appropriate extent to such nanomaterials, and discuss the results in an open dialog with the public and with important stakeholders, we can achieve the acceptance for this new technology. We should recognize the future of nanotechnology, which can only become reality if research and communication about possible negative aspects and effects are real and performed with the same endeavor as the development of new applications. At this conference, you have the chance to meet the most important representatives of research into biological effects of nanoparticles and nanomaterials, discuss with them and give input, for example for the development of new methods, biological models or standardization processes.

One of the most important tasks of the conference is development and enhancing of scientific partnerships in the area of nanotoxicology, the new science addressing to potential effects of nanoparticles on human health and environment.

Researchers with experience in studying the biological effects of nanoparticles will be invited to the conference to discuss their research (development of new methods, biological models, standardization and so on) and discuss common challenges/perspectives of Nanotoxicology.

The conference will include plenary meetings and sessions. The most interesting papers (no more than 20 minutes) will be presented at the plenary meetings. The following are topics that to help guide the sessions:

A round table for discussions is also planned.