Bioinspired engineered nickel nanoparticles with multifunctional attributes for reproductive toxicity

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Toxicology
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Nickel nanoparticles (Ni-NPs) are increasingly used in high-tech industries.
• Concerns exist regarding Ni-NP biological penetrability and potential health hazards.
• Research gaps remain concerning Ni-NP effects on male reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the male reproductive toxicity of Ni-NPs.
• To assess Ni-NP effects on Sprague Dawley rats' reproductive parameters.
• To provide baseline data for Ni-NP risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Controlled randomized study using Sprague Dawley rats.
• Characterization of 56 nm spherical Ni-NPs via SEM, EDS, and XRD.
• Intraperitoneal exposure to Ni-NPs (15, 30, 45 mg/kg BW) for 14 days.

Main Results:

• Higher Ni-NP doses (45 mg/kg BW) significantly reduced body weight, serum testosterone, and daily sperm production.
• Testis index and Ni accumulation increased with Ni-NP dose.
• Histological changes, including necrosis and vacuole formation, were observed in testicular tissues.

Conclusions:

• Ni-NPs demonstrate potential reproductive toxicity in male rats.
• Dose-dependent adverse effects on male reproductive parameters were observed.
• Findings support risk assessment for Ni-NP applications.