In research on the next-generation impact assessment of nanoparticles, which are being put to practical use in many products around us, research groups such as Osaka University have shown that silver nanoparticles ingested by mothers are transferred to offspring via breast milk at the mouse level. Clarified in.This achievement is based on joint research with Toyama University, Fujita Health University, Kyoto University, and National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institute of Natural Sciences.

 Nanoparticles are particulate matter controlled to a size of 100 nm (1000/1 millionth of a meter) or less.In recent years, nanoparticles have been put into practical use in daily products such as foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, and opportunities for men and women of all ages to take them into their bodies, such as by applying them to food and skin, are increasing.However, the safety evaluation of nanoparticles during the lactation period has been poor for infants who are susceptible to various substances.

 This time, the research group used mice to measure the silver concentration in breast milk when silver nanoparticles, which are commonly used, were ingested intravenously and by mouth.As a result, it was confirmed that silver nanoparticles were transferred from blood to breast milk.In addition, the smaller the particle size, the higher the migration rate.Furthermore, it was shown that the milk transferability changes when gold is used as the material of the nanoparticles or when the surface of the particles is chemically changed.
On the other hand, in pups, it was found that silver nanoparticles ingested from breast milk are absorbed into the body from the intestinal tract and reach the brain.However, in the evaluation of the effects on the brain, there was no effect on emotional or intellectual functions.

 In the future, it will be important to study the transferability of nanoparticles to human milk.In addition, using this result as the basis of next-generation impact assessment research on nanoparticles, we will realize a safe and secure society in the future by devising the size and materials of nanoparticles and developing nanoparticles that are difficult to transfer to breast milk. It is expected that it will be connected to.

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