Prophylactic effect of vitamin b12 against silicon dioxide nanoparticles- induced hepatotoxicity in adult male rats

Abstract

Silicon dioxide nanoparticles are increasingly used in various applications including agriculture, industrial, medical and cosmetics despite of their toxicity. Vitamin B12 is used as an antioxidant. The aim of this work is to explore the protective effect of vitamin B12 against the hepatotoxic potency of silicon nanoparticles in adult male rats. There was an increase in ALT, AST, ALP and MDA degrees. Also, there were a decrease in albumin, SOD and GSH levels. Histological, histochemical and immunochemical studies of hepatic tissue were evaluated. Silicon nanoparticles treatment increased the oxidative stress and induced hepatocytes degeneration, apoptosis and disturbance in polysaccharide, protein and collagen fibers contents when compared to the control group. However, Vitamin B12 administration relieved these side effects when compared to the silicon nanoparticles- treated group. It is concluded that vitamin B12 could reduce silica-induced hepatic toxicity as a potential antioxidant supplement.