Study Contradicts Carbon Nanotubes and Mesothelioma
A team of Swedish and U.S. scientists has found that carbon nanotubes, a material that is thought could cause mesothelioma, can be divided into harmless components by an enzyme found in the body.
Specifically, researchers found that the enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO), which is found in white blood cells, can break down the material into water and carbon dioxide. The study, published in the journal Nature Nanotechnology, contradicts previous beliefs about the dangers associated with carbon nanotubes may be relevant for the future use of carbon nanotubes for medical purposes.
