Evaluation the toxic effects of Cobalt-Zinc Ferrite nanoparticles in experimental mice

Cobalt Zinc ferrite nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized utilizing the auto-combustion flash method, with the general formula Co_1 - xZn_xFe₂O₄ (x = 0,0.35). This study aimed to evaluate the hepato-renal and systemic toxicity of Cobalt Zinc Ferrite nanoparticles (CZF NPs). A total of eighty female mice were utilized to ascertain the median lethal dose (LD50) of CF NPs (100 mg/kg) and CZF NPs (100 mg/kg). Thirty female CD1 mice were placed into three groups, each containing ten animals. In Group 1 (Gp1), mice were administered a 200 µl injection of sterile saline intraperitoneally (i.p.). During a 6-day period, Gp2 and Gp3 received injections of CF NPs and CFZ NPs. On day 14 after injection, hematological, biochemical, and histopathological data were measured. CZF NPs were characterized using X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM). There was a significant alteration in the overall body weight of mice injected with CZF NPs. Injections of CF NPs did not significantly alter red blood cells (RBC) counts, hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit percentage (Hct%), total white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. However, injections of CZF NPs resulted in an increase in WBC count and a decrease in platelet count. Furthermore, injection of CZF NPs altered the differential leukocyte percentages. The liver and kidney functions in mice injected with CF NPs did not show any notable changes. However, mice treated with CZF NPs had considerable increases in liver and kidney bio-markers. The administration of CF NPS did not modify the histological structure of hepatic and renal tissues; however, the hepatic and renal structures were disrupted in animals injected with CZF NPs. Overall, the findings indicated high toxicity of CZF NPs in the mice used for the experiment.