Advisor

Dr. Sanjay Batra

Second Advisor

2024

Department

Environmental Toxicology

Document Type

Presentation

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as a revolutionary tool in agriculture with the potential to boost crop yields, improve resource management, and promote sustainable farming practices. They excel in soil remediation, helping restore contaminated lands, and enable real-time monitoring of soil conditions, plant health, and environmental parameters. However, concerns have arisen about CNT exposure for agricultural workers due to their large surface area and pollutant-binding capabilities. Functionalizing CNTs with chemical groups like carboxyl or amine can alter their properties. Nevertheless, reports suggest heightened sensitivities to allergens, smoke, or pollutants in the presence of CNTs. To address these concerns, preliminary studies were conducted using lung alveolar epithelial cells (A549) exposed to both pristine and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The results indicated increased production of cytokines/chemokines, elevated expression of the NF-κB transcription factor, and prominent autophagy markers in A549 cells exposed to MWCNTs. In-silico studies further revealed enhanced binding between CNTs and inflammatory proteins, exacerbating the response to environmental pollutants like diesel particulate emissions (DPE). These findings highlight health risks associated with CNT exposure and their role in intensifying reactions to environmental pollutants. As the agricultural sector embraces CNTs, it is crucial to conduct continued research to comprehensively understand their toxic and inflammatory effects and mitigate negative consequences on the health and well-being of farmers.

Presentation Date

4-6-2024

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