Acute effect of nano-copper on liver tissue and function in rat

Objective(s): This paper reports on the toxicity of CuO NPs on hepatic enzymes and liver and lung histology. Materials and Methods: To assess the toxicity of copper nanoparticles (10-15 nm) in vivo, pathological examinations and blood biochemical indexes including serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) at various time points (2, 7 and 14 days) were studied. Thirty two Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups. Treatment groups (group 1, 2, 3) received CuO NP solution containing 5, 10 and 100 mg/kg, respectively. Control group received 0.5 mL of normal saline via ip injection for 7 consecutive days. After 14 days, the tissue of liver and lung were collected and investigated for their histological problems. Results: The histology of the hepatic tissues showed vasculature in central veins and portal triad vessels in all three treatment groups. Histology of lungs showed air sac wall thickening and increased fibrous tissue in all three groups. Biochemical results of the hepatic enzymes showed that the SGOT levels in groups 1 and 2 were significantly higher than the control group two days after the intervention. Conclusion: Results of this study indicated that all concentration of copper nanoparticles [with 10-15 nm diameters, spherical shape, purity of 99.9%, mineral in nature, and wet synthesis method in liquid phase (alternation)] induce toxicity and changes of histopathological changes in liver and lung tissues of rats. It is evident that these nanoparticles cannot be used for human purposes because of their toxicity.