Effect of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on the spleen of adult Male Albino Rat and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin C

Abstract

Recently, scientific research on nanoparticles (NPs) has shown a great and rapid growth due to their wide applications in various fields, including elec¬tronics, cosmetics, food industry, and medicine. The use of NPs has great potential in a wide range of applications, because of their distinct physicochemical characteristics. As a result, there is increasing probability for human and environmental contact with these nanomaterials. Metal oxide nanoparticles, such as copper oxide (CuO), have attracted attention mostly because of their antimicrobial and biocide properties. They are used for the development of many dental and surgical instruments, such as dental composite and intra uterine contraceptive devices. However, these CuO NPs induce oxidative stress in human cells, promote toxicity and can damage DNA and mitochondria. It is reported that kidney, liver and spleen are the target organs of CuO NPs. • The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different doses of CuO NPs on the histological structure of the spleen of adult male albino rats and to assess the possible protective role of vitamin C as an antioxidant