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September 28, 2016

ISO Publishes Standard for Compilation and Description of Sample Preparation and Dosing Methods for Engineered and Manufactured Nanomaterials

Lynn L. BergesonCarla N. Hutton

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) published ISO/TR 16196:2016, “Nanotechnologies — Compilation and description of sample preparation and dosing methods for engineered and manufactured nanomaterials.”  The goal of the standard is to assist scientists and experts to understand, plan, choose, and address issues relevant to nanomaterials before and during toxicological testing.  The descriptions of sample preparation method factors for both in vitro and in vivo toxicological testing of engineered and manufactured nanoscale materials include considerations about physico-chemical properties, media, methods for transformation and accumulation studies, health effects, and dosimetry.  According to ISO, the standard focuses on factors that might lead to results that are not relevant to safety evaluations.  When featured, the standard considers referenced methods for their general interest and potential applicability.  ISO states that it is likely that most of the described methods are not generally applicable to all nanomaterials, but they do demonstrate important factors and limitations that are common for a variety of nanomaterials.  ISO notes that the standard is not intended to be a literature review nor a thorough assessment of the quality of the methods or data generated.  The standard is intended to complement other international efforts.