Application of nanotechnology in novel nano-based compounds development for metal poisoning treatment.

Metal toxicity or metal poisoning is one of the major global health problems. Application of metals in different industries causes their widespread release in the environment. As a result, the chances of encountering them have increased. These toxicants induce multiple organ abnormalities, though the severity of their damage is related to various factors such as exposure route, exposure time, and dose of toxicant. Supportive treatment, chelation therapy, and specific antidotes are the main approaches to metal poisoning. However, this treatment protocol is not completely effective for curing many severely intoxicated patients with metals, and on some occasions, it has adverse effects, particularly chelators, which are potential agents to induce side effects in patients. Therefore, it is urgent that alternative treatments which are safer and more effective are introduced as soon as possible to save severe cases. Recently, with the help of nanotechnology using different strategies such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, microemulsions liquid crystal (LC) systems, nanoemulsions, nanogels, polymeric micelles, phytosomes, dendrimers, inclusion complexes, and precursors systems for liquid crystals (PSLCs), new, safer and more efficient compounds have been discovered, and they are at the testing process for the treatment of metal poisonings. Therefore, this review article introduces the state of the art of novel nano-based compounds for metal poisonings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]