Cytotoxicity of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Buckypaper in Human Lymphocytes

An in vitro study to assess toxicological properties of buckypaper made from multiwalled carbon nanotubes is presented. Human peripheral blood lymphocytes have been chosen as cell model, and cytotoxicity has been investigated as it is a crucial factor in understanding the mechanisms of action of nanomaterials on cells and tissues. Buckypaper treatment has resulted in a reduction of cell growth of phytoemaglutinin stimulated human lymphocytes. In view of the potentially widespread use of this nanomaterial in pharmacological and biological applications, for which injection into human body is foreseen, we believe the results of the present study can contribute to the knowledge of the human health risk related to the use of buckypaper.