Toxic Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Some Organs in Experimental Male Wistar Rats

Considering nanotechnology development and their extensive use in different fields of industry, it is necessary to investigate their destructive effects on biological systems. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles is an essential heavy metal and have been used as a source of zinc, in food industry and is applied in cosmetic products, but its accumulation in the tissues causes a hazard toxic effect. In present study, the effect of three different concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles was examined on male Wistar rats by daily intramuscular injection for 10 days. 24 male wistar rats were divided into four groups including a negative control group. At the end of experiment (day 11), rats were scarified and spleen, testis and heart tissues were dissected and fixed in 10% formline for histopathological investigations. Histopathological examinations showed severe damage and histological alterations in all tissues specimens. Results of present study proved ZnO nanoparticles toxicity and concluded that ZnO nanoparticles dose is one of critical factor influencing on their toxic effect. It is important to predict their toxicity potential on human. So, further studies are recommended to predict ZnO nanoparticles toxicity.