EFFECTS OF TITANIUM DIOXIDE NANOPARTICLES EXPOSURE ON THE VITAL ORGAN OF CTENOPHARYNGODON IDELLA

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to analyze the histopathological changes in the organs of Ctenopharyngodon Idella. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) were widely produced and released into the environment, posing a serious threat to fish and human health. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (Np-TiO2) have become the common component of sunscreen cosmetic products. Np-TiO2 can affect especially aquatic ecosystems’ health, including aquatic organisms such as fish. It is therefore necessary to acquire a better understanding of the effect of Np-TiO2 on aquatic organisms. This study evaluated the biological effects of Np-TiO2 on grass carp, such as survival rate and weight change and, in particular, the Ti content or retention in the gill, heart intestine, and liver. In addition, the structure of the intestine, gill, heart, and liver was investigated through histological analysis. Three hundred grass carp fish were used, randomly divided into five treatment groups: a control group (fed with food without adding Np-TiO2) and Titanium dioxide nanoparticles at different concentrations (0.5 mg/kg,1 mg/kg, 1.5 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg) were incorporated with a fish diet during an 8-week period. The amount of Ti in the gills, liver, heart, and intestine was measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry coupled to a graphite furnace (GFAAS). After treatment of titanium dioxide nanoparticle and histopathological analysis organ showed gill hyperplasia, necrosis, an increase of mucous secretion, mild hyperplasia, and a reduction in gill filament. In the heart dispersion and swelling, Necrosis, and Erosion were reported. In the liver cloudy swelling, necrosis, mild acute inflammation, and hydropic degeneration were reported. In the intestine were signs of necrosis, chronic non-specific inflammation, an increase in the number and size of goblet cells, and an increase in the number of lymphocytes. In conclusion, the presence of TiO2-NPs in natural water bodies may affect the aquaculture industry as well as inland fisheries.