Comparative study of nano and bulk FeO induced oxidative stress in Wistar rats.

CONTEXT

Magnetic nanomaterials (FeO NMs) have become novel tools with multiple biological and medical applications because of their biocompatibility. However, adverse health effects of these NMs are of great interest to learn.

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to assess the size and dose-dependent effects of FeO NMs and its bulk on oxidative stress biomarkers after post-subacute treatment in female Wistar rats.

METHODS

Rats were daily administered with 30, 300 and 1000 mg/kg b.w. doses for 28 d of FeO NMs and its bulk for biodistribution and histopathological studies.

RESULTS

FeO NMs treatment caused significant increase in lipid peroxidation levels of treated rats. It was also observed that the NM treatment elicited significant changes in enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase  and glutathione-S-transferase in treated rat organs with major reduction in glutathione content. Metal content analysis revealed that tissue deposition of NM in the organs was higher when compared to bulk and caused histological changes in liver.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that for same dose, NM showed higher bioaccumulation, oxidative stress and tissue damage than its bulk. The difference in toxic effect of FeO nano and bulk could be related to their altered physicochemical properties.