A histological and immunohistochemical study on testicular changes induced by sliver nanoparticles in adult rats and the possible protective role of camel milk

Abstract

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are broadly used in medicine and food industry, associated with potential toxicity in many organs. Camel milk (CM) is an excellent source of human nutrition and has many health benefits in prevention of diseases. Aim of the work: To assess the effect of two different doses of AgNPs on the testis of adult rats and the possible protective role of CM. Material and Methods: Forty-five adult male rats were divided into five groups, Group I: control rats, Group II: rats treated with low dose of silver nanoparticles, Group III: rats treated with high dose of AgNPs, Group IV: rats treated with low dose of AgNPs and camel milk, Group V: rats treated with high dose of AgNPs and camel milk. Testicular specimens were processed, then examined histologically and immunohistochemically. Testosterone hormonal assay were done. Morphometrical studies and statistical analysis were conducted. Results: Group II showed mild harmful effect, while Group III had severe damaging changes on the seminiferous tubules. They showed a significant increase (P < 0.01) of α-SMA, a significant decrease(P<0.01) of PCNA and Bcl-2 immunostaining in cells of the seminiferous tubule and a significant decrease (P < 0.01) of testosterone compared to control group. Groups IV and V showed improvement of the changes described before. Conclusion: Silver nanoparticles induced dose-dependent structural degenerative changes in testis. Camel milk able to attenuate biochemical and histopathological alterations caused by AgNPs by its antioxidant effect. Contact with high dosage of AgNPs is better to be avoided. Further clinical studies with human populations for long periods are still required. EJH