Researchers have reported that nano titanium dioxide can decrease lung inflammation in rats suffering from asthma, in a study designed to investigate the susceptibility of individuals with the lung condition to environmental pollutants.
Scientists from Health Canada stimulated an asthmatic reaction in rats using the allergen ovalbumin and measured the allergic reaction by counting substances produced as part of the immune system response. They then treated the animals with either ethanol vapours or nano titanium dioxide via inhalation to see if this altered the response.
They found that ethanol had no significant effect whilst nano titanium dioxide significantly reduced the number of substances indicating an immune response and other markers of inflammation measured. The researchers conclude this demonstrates a "surprising protective effect" of agglomerated nano titanium particles to reduce lung inflammation in asthmatic rats.
The research is published in Inhalation Toxicology.
Fonte: Chemical Watch
