Objective: This study aims to investigate the acute and chronic adverse effects of ∼50 nm (nanometer) gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) synthesized using Ziziphus zizyphus leaf extract in mice.
Significance: AuNPs have shown promise for medical applications, but their safety and biocompatibility need to be addressed. Understanding the potential adverse effects of AuNPs is crucial to ensure their safe use in medical applications.
Methods: The ∼50 nm AuNPs were synthesized using Ziziphus zizyphus leaf extract and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential analysis. Mice were subjected to a single intraperitoneal injection of AuNPs at a dose of 1 g/mg (grams per milligram) or a daily dose of 1 mg/kg for 28 days. Various parameters, including gold bioaccumulation, survival, behavior, body weight, and blood glucose levels, were measured. Histopathological changes and organ indices were assessed.
Results: Gold levels in the blood and heart did not significantly increase with daily administration of AuNPs. However, there were proportional increases in gold content observed in the liver, spleen, and kidney, indicating effective tissue uptake. Histopathological alterations were predominantly observed in the kidney, suggesting potential tissue injury.
Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate that ∼50 nm AuNPs synthesized using Z. zizyphus leaf extract can induce adverse effects, particularly in the kidney, in mice. These results highlight the importance of addressing safety concerns when using AuNPs in medical applications. Further investigations that encompass a comprehensive set of toxicological parameters are necessary to confirm the long-term adverse effects of AuNP exposure.
Keywords: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs); acute and chronic toxicity; bioaccumulation; biocompatibility; nanotoxicology; tissue accumulation; tissue uptake.