Zinc Nanoparticles Ameliorate the Reproductive Toxicity Induced by Silver Nanoparticles in Male Rats

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are among the most commonly used nanoparticles 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 testicular tissue of rats exposed to Ag-NPs. Histopathological examination showed various histological alterations in the testes of rats intoxicated with Ag-NPs. Furthermore, coadministration of Zn-NPs ameliorated most of the toxic effects of Ag-NPs via their antioxidative capacity.

Automated summary

The study showed that exposure to Ag-NPs had adverse effects on the male reproductive system, affecting sperm motility, morphology, and concentration, inducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in testicular tissue, and decreasing serum hormone levels. However, coadministration of Zn-NPs ameliorated most of the toxic effects of Ag-NPs through their antioxidative capacity.