Possible Mechanisms of Liver Injury Induced by Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles in Rat.

Cadmium is primarily utilized in the construction of particles known as quantum dots. Hepatotoxicity caused by microparticles of cadmium is very well known; however, toxicity of nanoparticles of cadmium is not well understood. The present study describes the toxicity of cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdSNPs) in the liver of rat. Adult Wistar rats were administered CdSNPs (10 mg/kg) on alternate days for 45 days. Serum enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), biomarkers of lipid peroxidation (MDA, H2O2, and NO), and metallothionein concentration were determined. Histopathological and TEM observations were also made to record morphological changes. CdSNPs (10 mg/kg) induced significant changes in the structure and function of liver. Values of serum enzymes and reactive species increased significantly in rats treated with CdSNPs in comparison to CdS-treated rats. Histopathological observations showed extensive parenchymal degeneration. Ultrastructural studies exhibited proliferation of endoplasmic reticulum, microsomes, and lysosomes. It is concluded that NP-membrane interaction leads to the generation of reactive species that alter membrane integrity and induce oxidative stress. These events may activate cell death pathways in hepatocytes.