Ultra-pure graphene oxide does not appear to have any immediate negative impacts on lung, cardiovascular function, says study

A significant research has revealed that a remarkable nanomaterial shows great promise for tackling a range of global concerns with little danger to human health.

This work, which was a first in the field of controlled exposure clinical trials, concentrated on a particular kind of graphene that is well-known for its unmatched strength, flexibility, and thinness, according to Interesting Engineering.

Ultra-pure graphene oxide, a water-compatible version of the material, does not appear to have any immediate negative impacts on lung or cardiovascular function, according to preliminary data. The research highlights the necessity for additional examination to ascertain the possible effects of elevated dosages and extended exposure to graphene, a material many hundreds of times thinner than human hair.

This discovery creates opportunities to investigate the wide range of uses of graphene in resolving urgent global issues while giving safety and health concerns a top priority.

A group of academics from the Universities of Manchester and Edinburgh reported the study's findings in the journal Nature Nanotechnology.

Graphene, a breakthrough substance with infinite potential, has garnered global interest since its isolation by scientists in 2004. The uses of graphene appear to be endless, ranging from water purification systems to electronics, apparel, and phone screens.

The field of medicine is one where graphene is becoming increasingly popular. Researchers are looking into its application in sensors, implantable devices, and targeted cancer therapies all across the world. But before its medical promise can be fully realised, it must undergo extensive testing for possible side effects.

In order to investigate this, the group gathered fourteen participants for a series of carefully planned exposure tests carried out in the context of clinical surveillance. The volunteers rode in a specially developed mobile exposure chamber for two hours while being exposed to graphene while wearing face masks. This chamber, which was transported from the National Public Health Institute in the Netherlands to Edinburgh, allowed for exact control over the circumstances of the experiment.

Surprisingly, the study showed no negative impacts on blood pressure, lung function, or most other biological parameters examined. Researchers stressed that the effect of graphene inhalation on blood coagulation was minimal, notwithstanding a little indication of that effect.

The group emphasises that the knowledge needed to carry out this research is the result of ten years of work. It involves developments in biology and materials science as well as the creation of clinical capacities required to carry out such painstakingly regulated research.