The Biological Effect of Different Doses of Gold Nanoparticles on the Liver of Female Rats: A Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

Kassab, Amira Adly; Moustafa, Khalid Ahmed Ahmed; Ragab, Mohamed Hassan; Ragab, Ayah Mohamed Hassan

doi:10.21608/ejh.2020.37340.1335

The Biological Effect of Different Doses of Gold Nanoparticles on the Liver of Female Rats: A Histological and Immunohistochemical Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine,Tanta University, Egypt

² Histology Department,Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University

³ Anatomy department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University

⁴ Reproductive Health and Family Planning Department,National Research Centre,Giza, Egypt

10.21608/ejh.2020.37340.1335

Abstract

Background: Gold nanoparticles [GNPs] are significant scientific achievements which are effectively employed in medicine. However, in vivo biological impact of these particles should be assessed to investigate their safety on human health.
Aim: Study of the biological effect of different gold nanoparticles doses on the liver of adult female rats exploring the novel mechanisms of gold nanoparticles induced liver damage.
Materials and Methods: Forty adult female rats were separated into one control group [Group I] and two GNPs-treated groups [Group II; 40μg/kg and Group III; 400μg/kg]. Specimens of the liver were taken to be processed for the light and electron microscopy in addition to immunohistochemical staining technique for the p53 protein, tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α] and B-cell lymphoma 2 [Bcl-2].
Results: Administration of gold nanoparticles to adult female rats caused various histological deterioration in the liver depending on the dose. Hepatocytes showed vacuolated cytoplasm and pyknotic nuclei. Dilation and congestion of the central veins, blood sinusoids, hepatic artery and portal vein were seen. Disrupted endothelial layer was observed in some central veins. An apparent increase in kupffer cells and mononuclear cellular infiltration were observed. The immunohistochemical results demonstrated a significant increase in p53 and TNF-α and a decrease in Bcl-2 immunoreactions. Ultrastructurally, swollen or damaged mitochondria, dilated rough endoplasmic reticulum [RER] and apparent glycogen depletion were observed in the hepatocytes.
Conclusion: Gold nanoparticles induced various dose dependent histological deterioration, inflammation and apoptosis in the liver of adult female rats. So, it should be given cautiously to females to avoid liver damage.

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