Toxicity assessment of synthesized Nickel-Zinc-Ferrite (Ni(0.6)Zn(0.4)Fe(2)O(4)) nanoparticles (NZFO NPs) on swiss albino mouse Mus musculus, through biochemical, histological and cytological investigations

Abstract

The electromagnetic applications of synthesized NZFO NPs in electronics and medicine are because of their unique surface properties. Like other nanoparticles, NZFO NPs are also a material of investigations for hazards and risks associated with occupational and living populations. With the same objective, the present work deals with biochemical, histological and cytological approaches for explaining the activities of NZFO NPs in living systems. Both in vitro and in vivo studies were performed on swiss albino mouse Mus musculus at the exposure levels from 125 mg/l to 500 mg/ml of NZFO NPs. Oral route intake resulted in significant MDA (Malondialdehyde) equivalent level production after two weeks in liver and testes. By fourth week, level remained significant in liver only (p less than 0.05). After a month, tissues like blood, spleen and testes were highly affected. Examination of blood revealed that leukocytes reached high levels. The RBC count in million/cmm was reduced in lowest dose of 125mg/ml. Good cell viability was achieved (94-97 percent) upon studying for three consecutive days in vitro blood culture of mice (0.6 mg/ml-10 mg/ml). It is thus suggested that this nanoparticle may be carcinogenic, affects blood tissue and organs depending upon its size, shape, chemical composition and surface characteristics rather than applied concentrations.