Nephrotoxicity induced by different diameters of sphere gold nanoparticles with special emphasis on the nephroprotective role of quercetin

Abstract

Background: Although, gold nanoparticles (GNPs) are attracting more and more attention due to their ease of  synthesis, modification, and great potential value in biomedical applications, exhibited harmful effects on human health  and other living species. Quercetin (Qur) clarifies diverse pharmacological effects, especially anti-inflammatory,  antiapoptotic, and antioxidant ones.

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the probable nephrotoxicity induced by different  diameters of sphere GNPs, as well as the nephroprotective role of Qur.

Methods: A total of 54 healthy mature male  albino rats were grouped and treated with or without sphere GNPs; 10, 20, and 50 nm and Qur (200 mg/kg b.wt.). The  effects of GNPs and Qur were estimated through the collection of blood and kidney samples from euthanized rats and  performed biochemical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical investigations.

Results: In comparison between  different diameters of GNPs, the 10 nm GNPs revealed more significant elevations in all renal function parameters:  creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen, and uric acid followed by 20 nm then 50 nm. Pre-cotreatment with Qur decreased  all renal functional values. Histopathologically, 10 nm revealed the most potent renal pathological changes represented  in the renal cortex with cloudy swelling of renal tubules, hypercellularity of some glomeruli, severe congestion of renal  blood vessels, focal inter tubular edema, and vascular endotheliosis (degeneration of endothelium). In addition, the  renal medulla revealed perivascular inflammatory cellular infiltration, perivascular fibrosis, intra tubular glycogen  deposition, and casts deposition of mainly cellular casts. On the other hand, the Qur treatment ameliorated most of  these pathological changes.

Conclusion: The size of GNPs is pivotal in their pathological effect on renal tissues where  the small-sized GNPs; 10 nm have more potent cytotoxic, inflammatory, and apoptotic effects rather than the larger  ones. Otherwise, Qur clarified a significant mitigating role against the nephrotoxicity of the GNPs.