Introduction: Titanium dioxide nanoparticles used in numerous medical and industrial applications. TiO2NPs nanotoxicity is a major health concern.
Aim of the Work: The objective of this research was to examine the oxidative status of parental exposed to TiO2NPs and the developmental status of their offspring's skeleton. Further, to examine the potential role of Portulaca oleracea extract as an antioxidant plant.
Materials and Methods: Twenty-four pregnant rats were divided into four groups: Control (C) group, P group (given 10 ml/kg B.W/day of P extract), T group (0.5mg/kg TiO2NPs every day) and P+T group ( given P extract, then TiO2NPs at the same dosage as before). Dosages were given orally from the 6th to the 19th day, all rats were sacrificed on the 20th day of gestation. Oxidant parameters such as glutathione GSH, Superoxide dismutase SOD and malondialdehyde MDA were determined from the liver of pregnant rats. Fetal skeletons were stained with alizarin-red S and Alcian blue. The fetal hind limbs were stained with Hx. &E and Mallory triple stain for histological examination.
Results: SOD and GSH content showed a significant reduction in the T-group compared to the control and P groups, and MDA level was significantly increased. Furthermore, rats in group T exhibited fetal growth retardation and skeletal abnormalities, including delayed ossification center development and reduced long bone growth. Histological examination revealed partial chondrification of the growth plate in fetal femur bones, leading to the deterioration of all zones and a significant decrease in collagen density. However, treatment with Portulaca oleracea extract resulted in an enhancement of antioxidant parameters in pregnant rats. The extract also decreased skeletal deformities induced by TiO2NPs and improved the length and structure of fetal long bones.
Conclusion: The present study recommended that antioxidant nutrient in diet may ameliorate the toxicity of TiO2NPsز