Effects of ZnO nanoparticles and ZnCl2 solution on rat liver and kidney

Recent studies have shown that Zn is released from the surface of ZnO-NPs when they are suspended in an aqueous state. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPS) and ZnCl2 in solution on plasmatic biochemical parameters, tissues trace elements and their possible cytotoxicity in rat liver and kidney. Rats were treated orally with doses of (ZnO-NPs) or (ZnCl2) (10 mg/Kg) for 5 consecutive days,control group received a dose of 0.9c/o sodium chloride. Sub-acute exposure to ZnO-NPs or ZnCl2 showed no significant change either in body weight, kidneys and liver weight. Oral administration of ZnO-NPs or ZnCl2 increased the plasmatic transaminase activity (AST and ALT). However, the creatinine, uric acid and blood glucose concentrations remained unchanged. Rats received ZnO-NPs or ZnCl2 solution showed a no significant increase of zinc content in the liver and kidney. Morover, the concentration of trace elements were slightly modulated after ZnO-NPs or ZnCl2 exposure. Histological analysis in the liver and kidney showed signs of discreet cytotoxicity (Inflammatory response, Vascular congestion, edema formation) in ZnONPs and ZnCl2 treated-rats compared to control group. Oral administration of ZnO-NPs or ZnCl2 showed no obvious toxic effect in rat liver and kidney.