Chronic toxicity of silver nanoparticles on fertility of male rat and atrial for protection by using zinc oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

The current study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of Ag-NPs with special reference to male reproduction, hepatic and renal effects, and the possible protective effect of Zn-NPs against these adverse effects. Forty adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups and treated orally as follow: Group 1: (control group): received distilled water. Group 2: (Ag-NPs group): received 50 mg/kg BW of silver nanoparticles. Group 3: (Zn-NPs group): received 30 mg/kg BW of zinc nanoparticles. Group 4: (Ag-NPs + Zn-NPs group): received the previously mentioned doses of Ag-NPs and Zn-NPs. After 3 months animals were anesthetized and sacrificed for sample collections. I- Toxic effect of Ag-NPs on the male reproductive system and the possible ameliorative role of Zn-NPs were investigated through: 1. Sperm evaluation: Sperms concentration, motility, viability, and morphology were investigated 2. Serum hormones: Serum was collected and examined for levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH. 3. Histopathological examination: Testes were collected and preserved in Bouin's solution for histopathological investigation. 4. Comet assay: Testes were used to investigate if there is DNA damage using the comet assay. II- Hepatic and renal toxicity: 1. Liver and kidney function evaluation: The collected serum samples were used for the investigation of ALT, AST, urea, and creatinine. 2. Histopathological examination: Livers and kidneys were collected and preserved in formalin solution and examined for histological alterations.