ABSTRACT
Background: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are considered one of the most commonly used nanoparticles due to its broad antimicrobial activity. However, the toxic effects of nanoparticles on normal cells and living organs are still not fully determined. Objectives: the present study was designed to investigate the toxicity of silver nanoparticles on liver, kidneys, brain and spleen in mice and to explore the possible mechanisms behind it. Material and Methods: 16 male mice from local strain were randomly classified into (1) control group (2) silver nanoparticles treated group; mice were orally administered AgNPs (1mg/kg/day) for 28 days. Biochemical analysis for serum levels of liver transaminases, urea and creatinine, lipid peroxides, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity and TNF-α were done in addition to histopathological examination for the four organs. Results: silver nanoparticles treated group showed significantly elevated serum levels of liver transaminases, urea and creatinine together with significant high levels of lipid peroxides and TNF-α with significant decrease in serum levels of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity. Histopathology of the organs revealed tissue damages in AgNPs treated group evidenced by disturbed organ architecture, congestion, increased inflammatory cells with signs of necrosis. Conclusion: administration of silver nanoparticles produced remarkable toxic effects to the liver, kidneys, brain and spleen of mice, probably via activation of oxidative stress and inflammatory processes in these organs.