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A comparative study on chitosan nanoparticle synthesis methodologies for application in aquaculture through toxicity
Subashni Bhoopathy1, Dhinakaraswamy Inbakandan1, Rajendran Thirugnanasambandam1
1Centre for Ocean Research (DST-FIST Sponsored Centre), MoES-Earth Science & Technology Cell (Marine Biotechnological Studies), Col. Dr. Jeppiaar Research Park, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India.
Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) synthesized via direct ionic gelation are safer for aquaculture applications. This method shows reduced toxicity compared to the microparticle intermediate method, making it ideal for aquatic environments.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Nanotechnology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) are increasingly utilized in aquaculture, particularly as drug delivery systems.
- Optimizing CSNP synthesis is crucial for safe and effective application in aquatic environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and evaluate CSNPs using two distinct methods for aquaculture suitability.
- To compare the efficacy and safety of CSNPs produced via direct ionic gelation versus a microparticle intermediate method.
Main Methods:
- Two CSNP synthesis methods were analyzed: direct ionic gelation (Method A) and a low-molecular-weight chitosan microparticle intermediate (Method B).
- Characterization included dynamic light scattering for particle size analysis.
- Toxicology screening involved brine shrimp (Artemia salina), shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei), and zebrafish (Danio rerio) assays.
Main Results:
- Method A produced larger CSNPs (192.7 nm) compared to Method B (22.9 nm).
- Method A exhibited significantly lower toxicity in brine shrimp (LC50 = 1.51 ppt) and zebrafish (21.67% mortality at 20 mg/L) than Method B (LC50 = 0.02 ppt; 55% mortality).
- Acute toxicity in Litopenaeus vannamei showed high LC50 values for both methods, but Method A was comparatively less toxic.
Conclusions:
- Direct ionic gelation (Method A) yields CSNPs with comparatively reduced toxicity, making them more appropriate for aquaculture.
- The microparticle intermediate method (Method B) resulted in smaller but more toxic CSNPs, with increased reactive oxygen species in zebrafish.
- CSNP synthesis method significantly impacts particle characteristics and toxicological profiles in aquatic organisms.
