Zinc Nanoparticles Induced Oxidative Stress, Genotoxicity and Apoptosis in Haemocytes of Bombyx mori Larvae

Abstract

The expanded uses of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have grown rapidly in the field of nanotechnology. Thus, the increased production of nanoparticles (NPs) increases the potential risks to the environment and occupationally exposed humans. Hence, safety toxicity assessment including genotoxicity of these NPs is indispensable. In the present study, we have evaluated the genotoxic effect of ZnO-NPs on 5th larval instar of Bombyx mori after feeding on mulberry leaves treated with ZnO-NPs at concentrations 50 and 100μg/ml. Moreover, evaluated its effects on total and different haemocyte count, antioxidant potential and catalase activity on the haemolymph of treated larvae. Results showed that ZnO-NPs at concentrations 50 µg/l and100 µg/ml significantly decreased the total haemocyte count (THC) and different haemocyte count (DHC) except the number of Oenocyte it significantly increased. Gene expression profile also showed up-regulation of GST, CNDP2 and CE genes suggesting increase in antioxidant activity and alteration in cell viability as well as cell signaling.

Enhanced resilience of marine fish to extreme environments by nano-ZnO exposure

“…[14][15][16] For example, hemolymph cell loaded with nZnO (50 μg ml −1 ) showed increased antioxidant activity by boosting the enzymes SOD and CAT production compared to Zn alone. 17 However, the impacts of nZnO on the antioxidant system of fish and its physiological response at the molecular level are unknown.…”