Zinc nanoparticles ameliorate the reproductive toxicity induced by silver nanoparticles in male rats

Abstract

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are among the most commonly used nanopar- ticles in different fields. Zinc nanoparticles (Zn-NPs) are known for their antioxidant effect. This study was designed to investigate the adverse effects of Ag-NPs (50 nm) on the male reproductive system and also the ameliorative effect of Zn-NPs (100 nm) against these harmful effects. Methods: Forty adult male rats were used in this study; they were randomly divided into four equal groups: control group, Ag-NPs group, Zn-NPs group, Ag-NPs + Zn-NPs group. Ag-NPs (50 mg/kg) and/or Zn-NPs (30 mg/kg) were administered orally for 90 days. Results: The results revealed that exposure to Ag-NPs adversely affected sperm motility, morphology, viability, and concentration. Ag-NPs also induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in testicular tissue. The exposure to Ag-NPs decreased serum FSH, LH, and testosterone hormones. Additionally, comet assay revealed DNA degeneration in the testi- cular tissue of rats exposed to Ag-NPs. Histopathological examination showed various histological alterations in the testes of rats intoxicated with Ag-NPs. Furthermore, co- administration of Zn-NPs ameliorated most of the toxic effects of Ag-NPs via their anti- oxidative capacity.