Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026
Toxicity Study of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Cell Culture and in Drosophila melanogaster
Published on: September 19, 2019
Acute, sub-acute and developmental toxicity studies of molybdenum disulfide nanoflowers in rats, as per OECD
Farina Hanif1, Aslam Khan2,3, Fareeha Anwar1
1Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Raiwind Campus, Lahore, Pakistan.
Background:
This study aimed to investigate the potential toxic effects of Molybdenum disulfide nano-flowers (MoS2 NF), which have been suggested as a chemotherapeutic agent, but lack previous toxicity studies.
Methods:
Acute, sub-acute and developmental toxicity studies were conducted following OECD guidelines 425, 407 and 414, respectively.
Results:
In the acute toxicity study, female Wistar rats received logarithmic doses (1.75-550 mg/kg) of MoS2NF over 14 days. Results indicated a decrease in oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD and GSH) and increased MDA levels, along with significant decrease in organ weight compared to normal control. Alterations in liver enzymes, CBC profile and lipid profile and histopathological analysis were observed in MoS2 NF groups. Sub-acute toxicity (28-day at 3 and 10 mg/kg in both male and female rats) resulted in increased levels of ALT and AST, decreased levels of CAT, SOD and GSH and increased MDA and urea levels. Sperm analysis in male group showed increased motility and concentration, with more defective morphology. In developmental toxicity studies, a 10 mg/kg dose for 21 days decreased all oxidative markers except MDA, which increased. Fetal crown-to-rump length increased, while uterine SOD, CAT and GSH levels decreased. Histopathology revealed organ damage in both sub-acute and developmental studies. Maternal weight remained unaffected, whereas fetal weight showed an increased.
Conclusion:
MoS2 NF exhibited mild-to-moderate toxicity, however, long-term and studies are recommended to assess the safety and therapeutic potential of MoS2NF.
Insights
Molybdenum disulfide nano-flowers (MoS2 NF), a potential chemotherapy agent, showed mild-to-moderate toxicity in rat studies. Further research is needed to evaluate its safety and therapeutic efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Nanomaterials Science
- Toxicology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Molybdenum disulfide nano-flowers (MoS2 NF) are being explored as a potential chemotherapeutic agent.
- Previous toxicity studies on MoS2 NF are lacking, necessitating an investigation into their safety profile.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential toxic effects of Molybdenum disulfide nano-flowers (MoS2 NF) in animal models.
- To assess the acute, sub-acute, and developmental toxicity of MoS2 NF.
Main Methods:
- Acute toxicity study conducted on female Wistar rats following OECD guideline 425.
- Sub-acute and developmental toxicity studies performed on male and female rats according to OECD guidelines 407 and 414, respectively.
- Evaluation of oxidative stress markers, organ function tests, hematology, lipid profiles, sperm analysis, and histopathology.
Main Results:
- Acute toxicity revealed decreased oxidative stress markers (CAT, SOD, GSH), increased MDA levels, and reduced organ weight.
- Sub-acute and developmental studies indicated alterations in liver enzymes (ALT, AST), urea levels, and histopathological damage.
- Developmental toxicity showed increased fetal crown-to-rump length and fetal weight, with maternal weight unaffected.
Conclusions:
- Molybdenum disulfide nano-flowers (MoS2 NF) exhibit mild-to-moderate toxicity.
- Long-term studies are recommended to fully assess the safety and therapeutic potential of MoS2 NF for clinical applications.
More Related Videos
10:10Assessment of the Acute Inhalation Toxicity of Airborne Particles by Exposing Cultivated Human Lung Cells at the Air-Liquid Interface
Published on: February 23, 2020
08:18A Small-Scale Setup for Algal Toxicity Testing of Nanomaterials and Other Difficult Substances
Published on: October 10, 2020
