Histological Effects of Gold Nanoparticles on the Lung Tissue of Adult Male Albino Rats

SHORT INTRODUCTION: Nanoparticles (NPs) represent a new line in the investigations and treatment of group of diseases. Furthermore, it is found in many products and enters the body by different roots as ingestion and inhalation. Lung is more liable to exposure to these particles. Safety of these particles on the lung needs to be examined. AIM OF THE WORK: To study the effect of gold NPs (GNPs) on the histological structure of the lung tissue. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty-six healthy male albino rats were randomly divided into three groups including control group (Group I) and two GNP-treated groups (Group II received low dose and Group III received high dose daily for 14 days). At the end of the experiment, all the rats were sacrificed; lungs were dissected and processed to be examined by light and electron microscopy. RESULTS: GNPs induced inflammatory infiltration dilatation and congestion of the blood vessels in association with the collapse of lung alveoli and extravasations of red blood cells. Caspase-3 immunohistochemical reaction showed strong positive reaction in Group III mainly. Ultrastructure observation revealed affection of type II pneumocyte and thickening in the alveolar wall. CONCLUSIONS: GNPs led to histological changes in the lung tissue.