Developmental toxicity of silver nanoparticles: Calls for more attention and research efforts

Abstract With the increasing production and applications, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be released into the air, water and soil environment, leading to direct exposure to human beings. Embryos and fetuses are more sensitive to environmental pollutants than adults. Thus, the developmental toxicity of AgNPs should be of great concern. However, the targets and molecular mechanisms how prenatal AgNP exposure affects fetal development in mammals are largely unknown. In the current review, the translocation and developmental toxicities of AgNPs upon maternal exposure in mammals are summarized. AgNPs are able to translocate to the fetus, resulting in resorption, growth retardation and histological and functional abnormalities in the fetal central nervous system (CNS), reproductive system, immune system and other systems or organs. A few likely mechanisms, including direct and indirect mechanisms, and knowledge gaps are elucidated. The fundamental physiochemical properties that determine their behaviors are discussed in order to develop safe-by-design nanomaterials for personal care and medical applications. This review aims to advance the understanding of the developmental toxicities of AgNPs for the design of nanomaterials that harbor better biocompatibility.