Abstract

In pursuit of separating the mysteries of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) and their potential toxicity during pregnancy, a study was conducted using Swiss albino mice as experimental models at the Institute of Zoology, University of Punjab, Lahore. The research aimed to explore the effects of ZnO-NPs on pregnant female mice and their F1 generation offspring, as well as the protective role of fresh orange juice through co-administration. Forty pregnant female mice were divided into different groups: a control group, a group treated with ZnO-NPs, a group given both ZnO-NPs and fresh orange juice, and a group administered only with fresh orange juice. The administration of ZnO-NPs during organogenesis resulted in decreased body weight and increased lung weight in the pregnant mice. Biochemical analysis showed disruptions in LDH levels and fluctuations in CBC parameters. Histopathological examination revealed structural abnormalities in the lungs of ZnO-NPs treated mice and their fetuses, including distorted bronchi and undifferentiated alveoli. Morphometric analysis showed reduced body weight and increased lung weight in the ZnO-NPs group compared to controls. Elevated LDH levels, WBC count, and abnormalities in lymphocytes and platelets were observed in both mothers and F1 mice. The study concluded that ZnO-NPs could be toxic to pregnant mice and their offspring, potentially causing lung toxicity by crossing the placental barrier. However, the research also highlighted the protective potential of fresh orange juice, attributed to its antioxidant properties as determined by FRAP and TPC analysis. In essence, this study sheds light on the intricate interplay between ZnO-NPs, pregnancy, and lung toxicity in mice, emphasizing the importance of understanding nanoparticle toxicity and exploring natural remedies for mitigation.