Histo-morphological changes induced by nano nickel particles in rat testis

Abstract

Abstract Exposure to nickel nanoparticles is known to cause adverse health effects in man and animal models. Present investigations were undertaken to determine the histo-morphological changes induced by nickel nanoparticles in testis of Wistar rats with special reference to duration of exposure. Suitable numbers of rats were fed with NiONPs and NiOMPs (5mg/kg b.w.each) for 15 and 30 days. Testes were removed and processed for histopathological, histochemical and SEM observations. Bioconcentration of nickel in testis and serum level of testosterone were also estimated. The results showed that NiONPs and NiOMPs could induce specific time dependent lesions in the testis of rat. Degeneration of germinal epithelium, spermatocytes, hypertrophy of seminiferous tubules and necrosis were observed. Localization of alkaline phosphatase was also altered. SEM results also indicated specific morphological changes in cellular components of tubules. In conclusion, present study suggests that testis is a target organ of NiONPs toxicity where its exposure time dependent effects are expressed. The results will be helpful in understanding the reproductive toxicity of new materials.