TiO2 nanoparticles induced oxidative stress mediated DNA damage in the liver of adult male Wistar rats

Nanoparticles (NPs) are extensively being used in modern life due to their distinctive properties like small size having large surface area. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) NPs are mostly used in cosmetic products, food additives, pharmaceuticals and electronics. They are capable of inducing oxidative stress in both animals and human. The intention of this study was to find out the hepatotoxic effect of TiO2 NPs on the male Wistar rats. The animals were divided in to three groups. First group received normal saline; Second group received TiO2 NPs (50 mg/kg/bw) for 14 days continuously, while third group received TiO2 NPs (100 mg/kg/bw) for the same duration. The increased levels of specific markers AST, ALT, ALP, LDH and GGT along with the TBARS, LOOH, CD and PC in the liver clearly shows the hepatotoxic action of TiO2. The hepatotoxic nature of TiO2 NPs was more evidenced by the diminished activity of antioxidant enzymes levels and also showed augmented DNA damage and fragmentation in hepatoc