Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Biochemical Hematological Parameters and Liver Histopathology of Rabbit

Abstract

Zinc oxide nanoparticles have broad spectrum utilization in the nano-industry because of their distinct characteristics. Increased human exposure to nanoparticles has been observed through various products like dyes, additives, ceramics, beauty products rubber etc. Objectives: This study was carried out to evaluate the ZnO nanoparticle's toxic effects on hematological and biochemical parameters in lower and higher doses in a rabbit model. Methods: Thirty male rabbits were used and ten rabbits were assorted in each group. Groups included control and experimental group 1 (low dose group 50mg/kg) & and group 2 (high dose group 75 mg/kg). The oral administration of ZnO nanoparticles was given for 20 days. The parameters included body weight, blood glucose level, serum level of aspartate transaminase (AST), serum level of alanine transaminase (ALT), serum albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets. The parameters were measured on the 1st, 10th and 20th day of the experiment. Results: Nanoparticle administration resulted in a non-significant decrease in body weight and blood glucose level. Serum level aspartate transaminase in experimental group 2 was significantly increased. Triglycerides had shown a non-significant increase in experimental group 2. Non-significant decrease was observed in red blood cells and platelet count of both the experimental groups. Histopathological studies revealed damaged liver parenchyma and hepatocyte degeneration in the high-dose group. Conclusions: ZnO nanoparticle administration resulted in damage to liver histopathology. Its toxicity resulted in increased levels of triglycerides, AST and ALT due to liver damage.