Involvement of lysosomal proteins in morphology-driven toxicity of (nano)fibers
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By
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Rico Ledwith
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Carla Ribalta
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Mario Pink
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Andrea Haase
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Verónica I. Dumit
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July 14, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Role of Lysosomal Proteins in Toxicity Associated with Morphology of (Nano)Fibers
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Toxicity associated with inhalation of critical fibers |
| Key Mechanisms | Frustrated phagocytosis leading to chronic inflammation and potential cancer development |
| Target Population | Individuals exposed to respirable fibers, including asbestos and nanofibers |
| Care Setting | Toxicological research and safety evaluations |
Key Highlights
- Frustrated phagocytosis is a key mechanism in fiber toxicity.
- Critical fibers are defined by specific morphological criteria.
- Carbon nanotubes may exhibit asbestos-like pathogenicity.
- NLRP3 inflammasome activation is linked to macrophage response to fibers.
- Comprehensive safety evaluations are needed for nanofibers.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Evaluate fiber morphology and biopersistence for health risk assessment.
Management
- Implement safety evaluations for exposure to critical fibers.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Monitor inflammatory responses and biomarkers in exposed populations.
Risks
- Inhalation of critical fibers can lead to fibrosis, lung cancer, and malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals exposed to critical fibers in occupational or environmental settings.
Current testing strategies rely on animal models; new methodologies are needed.
Clinical Best Practices
- Adopt the 3Rs principles to reduce animal testing in fiber toxicity assessments.
- Focus on developing predictive in vitro biomarkers for fiber exposure.
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