Toxicity of silver nanoparticles on different tissues of Balb/C mice

Area of Science:

• Toxicology
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Research

Background:

• Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are increasingly used in various applications.
• Understanding their potential toxicity is crucial for human and environmental safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the toxicity of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in adult Balb/C mice.
• To determine the effects of different Ag NP concentrations on various tissues and physiological parameters.

Main Methods:

• Balb/C mice were divided into four groups: one control (saline injection) and three experimental groups (0.25, 0.50, and 1 mg/kg Ag NPs).
• Toxicity was assessed by examining pathological changes in organs, sperm quality, blood-brain barrier permeability, oxidative stress levels, liver enzymes, and renal markers.

Main Results:

• Ag NPs induced toxicity in multiple tissues, including the liver, spleen, brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and testicles, even at concentrations above 0.25 mg/kg.
• Significant changes in sperm quality and quantity, and increased blood-brain barrier permeability were observed.
• The lowest concentration (0.25 mg/kg) significantly altered oxidative stress levels in serum and liver tissue, but not liver enzymes or renal markers.

Conclusions:

• Ag NPs exhibit toxic effects at very low concentrations.
• Further in vivo investigations are necessary to confirm the safety of nanoparticle-derived applications for human use.