Nanomaterial registry: database that captures the minimal information about nanomaterial physico-chemical characteristics

Evaluating the implications of nanomaterials in biological and environmental systems can be difficult without sufficient characterization of the nanomaterials' physico-chemical characteristics (PCC). Additionally, while nanomaterials possess inherent characteristics, their acquired characteristics can change based on the system under consideration or even the test method or protocol used for the characterization. The Nanomaterial Registry, an authoritative resource for nanomaterial data, has established minimal information about nanomaterials (MIAN) for PCC. The MIAN is used as a guideline for curating and archiving the nanomaterial information that is vital to understanding the biological and environmental implications of these materials. This manuscript details the MIAN developed and provides examples of curated data. The MIAN and Registry data model are flexible, and can accommodate new information and insights as scientific discovery regarding nanomaterials evolves. Through the use of the MIAN, the Registry archives sufficient metadata to allow the user to easily access the original/source study records of interest.