title: Nanotoxicology and challenges of translation.
abstract: This paper focuses on the processes of translation in nanomedical research practices and contributes to a context- and object-centred research agenda in Science and Technology Studies. In particular, it addresses how nano-specific issues in medical research are exacerbated by uncertainty and unpredictability. Analyzing the relationship between nanomedicine and nanotoxicology I discuss how scientists are involved in highly uncertain processes, which require a contingent and experimental approach to nano-objects in everyday laboratory practices. Consequently, the dealings with nanomedical materials evoke a reformulation of numerous traditional forms of toxicological knowledge and knowledge practices, and challenge the self-concept of toxicology as a testing discipline.
authors.affiliation: School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Glamorgan Building, CF10 3WT, Cardiff, UK.
authors.forename: Ghazal
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: PourGashtasbi
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D050997:Nanomedicine; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000633:toxicity; D018570:Risk Assessment; D057170:Translational Research, Biomedical
keywords: nanomaterials; nanotoxicology; object- and knowledge-formation; transformation of practices and self-understanding; translation; uncertainty