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 Commission (EC) intends to establish a digital infrastructure for advanced materials called the ‘Materials Commons’. This initiative intends to enhance the design, development, and testing of advanced materials. A key aspect of the platform will involve the use of artificial intelligence tools, which can potentially be used for optimized hazard and risk assessment of advanced materials.

A recent critical perspective argues that nanomaterials should be regulated as biological rather than chemical entities. The researchers emphasise the importance of using existing knowledge about the biological interactions of nanomaterials and their impact on human health and the environment. The authors list various well-known challenges regarding the safety assessment of nanomaterials.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has introduced new guidance for evaluating nanoparticles in food that may dissolve in lipids before consumption. By using the 1-octanol-water partition coefficient (KOW) method nanospecific considerations for safety assessments may potentially be waived.

Titanium dioxide (TiO2), previously banned as a food additive (E 171) in 2022 due to safety concerns, is used in medicines as an excipient. French scientists have estimated the intake of TiO2 from oral medications, finding that 54% contained TiO2, with an average daily intake of 1.71 mg. This is lower compared to the exposure from food when E 171 was still allowed.

Ex vivo exposure of human placentas to realistic concentrations of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and silicium dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles affect placental protein secretion, which slowed the growth of new blood vessels in an in vitro model. Current regulatory guidelines do not sufficiently address placental toxicity, highlighting the need for improved testing methods to evaluate the reproductive and developmental toxicity of nanomaterials.