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The scientific material known as graphene, referred to as a “miracle substance,” has made significant progress towards being utilized for practical solutions to significant global issues.
Graphene is an incredibly thin, highly durable, and extremely flexible material that has the potential for groundbreaking uses in fields such as tissue engineering and the creation of innovative technological devices.
Scientists have expressed concerns about its potential to harm human health, which could create major challenges for its practical application.
According to recent studies, there are no apparent immediate negative impacts on lung or heart function from inhaling the substance.
This was the initial controlled clinical trial to test ultra-pure graphene oxide, a water-compatible form of the material.
14 participants were enlisted by the researchers to participate in the study. These individuals inhaled the substance through a face mask while cycling in a chamber designed for exposure, for a duration of two hours.
The effects on the lungs, blood pressure, blood clotting, and blood inflammation were observed before and every two hours during the exposure.
The volunteers came back after a period of two weeks to continue the experimentation.
The study found that there were no adverse impacts on the respiratory system, blood pressure, or any other areas that were analyzed.
They observed a minor indication that breathing in the substance may affect blood clotting, but stressed that it was of minimal significance.
The scientists stated that additional testing would be necessary to determine if prolonged exposure to the substance could potentially harm human health, and if other variations of graphene could also be hazardous to humans.
In 2004, researchers successfully created graphene, which was praised as a remarkable material.
This substance is composed of carbon and is made up of a single layer of atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern.
Researchers globally are actively investigating the potential of graphene to aid in the treatment of cancer and other medical ailments.
According to Dr. Mark Miller from the Centre for Cardiovascular Science at the University of Edinburgh, materials at the nanoscale, like graphene, show potential for advancements. However, it is crucial to ensure their safe production before incorporating them into our daily lives.
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Exploring the safety of graphene in human volunteers is a significant advancement in our understanding of its potential impact on the body.
“Through meticulous planning, we can effectively utilize nanotechnology in a secure manner.”
Kostas Kostarelos, a professor at the University of Manchester and the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Barcelona, stated that this is the first study to show that highly pure forms of graphene oxide, with a specific size and surface properties, can be developed with minimal risk to human health.
“It took us over a decade to acquire the expertise required to conduct this research, including both materials and biological science knowledge, as well as the clinical capability to safely execute controlled studies. We accomplished this by bringing together top experts in the field.”
Bryan Williams, a professor and the chief scientific and medical officer of the British Heart Foundation, stated that the finding of the safe development of this particular type of graphene, with minimal temporary side effects, may pave the way for advancements in devices, treatments, and monitoring methods.
“We anticipate the results of more extensive studies conducted over a longer period of time, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the safe utilization of nanomaterials, such as graphene, in revolutionizing the administration of life-saving medications to patients.”
More information gathered from other sources.
Source: independent.co.uk
