A COST research network developing computational models and databases that relate nanomaterial structure to toxicity. The work combines nanomaterial science, toxicology, and modelling to support safer material design and more consistent assessment of environmental and health risks.
Completed24/10/2012–23/10/2016research network
European Commission
MODENA / Modelling Nanomaterial Toxicity
MODENA brings together nanomaterials researchers, toxicologists and computational modellers to understand how the structure of engineered nanomaterials relates to their biological effects. Nanoscale materials can have properties that differ from those of larger particles, creating both useful applications and potential hazards. The Action coordinates work on quantitative models that predict toxicological and ecotoxicological effects from material characteristics. Participants from universities, regulatory organisations and industry contribute the different forms of expertise needed to develop and validate these models. The intended benefits are safer material design, reduced reliance on animal experiments, and transparent prediction methods suitable for regulatory assessment. The modelling tools are developed with attention to established OECD principles for dependable quantitative structure–activity relationships.