A multidisciplinary approach to the identification of reference materials for engineered nanoparticle toxicology

The development of reference materials for toxicology and metrology is a critical component in establishing testing strategies and methods for human health hazard assessment of nanoparticles. A UK-based project (REFNANO) employed a workshop-based process to identify a priority list of candidate reference materials to support the measurement, toxicology and risk assessment of engineered nanoparticles. Consensus was reached amongst leading UK experts in toxicology, metrology and risk assessment from academia, government and industry on: (i) A rationale for the selection and development of priority reference/test materials; (ii) a priority listing of reference/test materials; (iii) the quantities of materials needed and the matrix in which they are present; and (iv) a recommended set of characteristics to be determined for the reference/test materials. The project also identified a series of actions for the development and promulgation of reference materials for nanoparticles for further consideration, both nationally and internationally.