Transfer of orally administered ZnO:Eu nanoparticles through the blood-testis barrier: the effect on kinetic sperm parameters and apoptosis in mice testes

Nanotechnology. 2019 Nov 8;30(45):455101. doi: 10.1088/1361-6528/ab36f4. Epub 2019 Jul 30.

Abstract

Zinc-based nanoparticles are promising materials for various applications, including in biomedicine. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of fluorescent europium-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO:Eu NPs) on sperm parameters, cell apoptosis and integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in mice. Nanostructures were orally administered to adult mice (n = 34). Animals were sacrificed after 3 h, 24 h, 7 d and 14 d following oral administration. Sperm was collected and analysed for viability and kinetic parameters. Collected testes were quantitatively analysed for accumulation of ZnO:Eu NPs. Microscopic evaluation based on immunofluorescence and histopathological studies were also conducted. Results showed that ZnO:Eu NPs were able to overcome the BTB with their subsequent accumulation in the testis. No toxic or pro-apoptotic effects of nanoparticles on the male reproductive system were observed. The results suggested that ZnO:Eu NPs were able to accumulate in the testis with no negative impact on sperm parameters, tissue architecture or the integrity of the BTB.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Animals
  • Apoptosis
  • Blood-Testis Barrier / drug effects*
  • Europium / administration & dosage
  • Europium / chemistry
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Nanoparticles
  • Spermatozoa / cytology*
  • Spermatozoa / drug effects
  • Zinc Oxide / administration & dosage*
  • Zinc Oxide / chemistry
  • Zinc Oxide / pharmacology

Substances

  • Europium
  • Zinc Oxide