A recent study applied machine learning to investigate which physicochemical and experimental factors were most involved in genotoxicity of titanium dioxide (TiO2). The findings confirmed that exposure concentration, cell medium composition, and lysis temperature in the comet assay correlate with DNA damage. The identified correlations could provide valuable insights for standardizing this test. However, the study methods and findings are too limited to identify new parameters involved in genotoxicity. Also, the scope was not aimed at providing evidence on the genotoxicity of TiO2, and therefore the study has no direct relevance for the discussion on the carcinogenicity classification of TiO2 nanomaterials.

A recent review discusses the suitability of in vitro models for studying the intestinal uptake of nanomaterials. While Caco-2 cell models are widely recognised for studying chemical uptake, their suitability for nanomaterials is limited due to the complex physiological processes involved, prompting the need for more advanced co-culture models. Significant knowledge gaps remain, especially in standardising and assessing how well these models mimic human biology and relevant exposure scenarios. Currently, the first steps towards harmonization of new approach methodologies as a tool to predict intestinal uptake of nanomaterials are being taken.

Advancements in nanoscience over the past 25 years have significantly influenced fields like nanoelectronics, bionanotechnology, and nanophotonics, driving innovations in computing, healthcare, and energy. Two key publications celebrate these achievements while underscoring the necessity for robust safety governance frameworks to address health, environmental, and ethical concerns associated with nanomaterials. As the integration of nanotechnology into everyday life accelerates, understanding the risks and benefits of these materials becomes crucial, prompting a call for proactive, adaptive regulatory approaches and international collaboration.

A recent review highlights the potential of using common waste materials, such as fruit peels and food waste, for the sustainable synthesis of nanoparticles, utilizing their rich natural compounds as reducing and stabilizing agents. This green chemistry approach enhances production efficiency compared to traditional methods, offering significant economic and environmental benefits by using biomass waste streams and reducing raw material costs. Challenges remain regarding consistency, long-term safety, and scaling up production. There is a need for clear regulatory guidelines and standardised toxico¬logical evaluations which are improved to enable wider industrial adoption.

MXenes (pronounced maxenes) are a unique family of two-dimensional materials. Current regulatory frameworks struggle to effectively manage MXenes due to their distinct properties and lack of appropriate safety testing methods. The OECD's Early4AdMa methodology highlights the need for improved characterisation, toxicity testing, and greener production processes for titanium carbide MXenes, emphasising the limited data available on their health and environmental impacts. Proactive regulation and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential as MXenes move closer to commercialisation, ensuring that safety and sustainability considerations are incorporated into the development of advanced materials.

The European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC) has taken a significant step towards implementing a Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) approach. They published a report that outlines the process for industry players to adopt such an SSbD approach in their innovation process.

The European Parliament has rejected the revised Novel Foods definition of ‘engineered nanomaterial’. Concerns about the threshold for defining a material as an engineered nanomaterial being too high prevented its adoption.

Human biomonitoring can help improve (occupational) risk assessment, provided that a clear relationship exists between a biomarker and a biologically relevant (adverse) effect. Implementing biomonitoring in the workplace will also need to consider privacy aspects.

Interest in development of nanopesticides is growing due to their potential for greater activity or more gradual release of active substances than conventional pesticides. They are often seen as a promising sustainable alternative, requiring smaller amounts of active substances per hectare.

The European Commission aims for industrial leadership in advanced materials but puts limited focus on ensuring their safety and sustainability. The NanoSafety Cluster (NSC) has published a roadmap identifying critical actions related to the safety and sustainability of nanomaterials and other innovative advanced materials.