The Effects of Intraperitoneal Injection of ZnO-Chitosan Nanocomposite on Liver Injury in Rats

Background: The use of nanocomposites is increasing nowadays. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of intraperitoneal injection of zinc oxide (ZnO)-chitosan nanocomposites on serum liver enzymes and liver injury in male rats. Methods: 32 male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups of one control and three treatment groups. The treatment groups received intraperitoneal injections of ZnO-chitosan nanocomposites (80, 160, and 320 mmol/ml) for four weeks. Control rats were treated with normal saline. At the end of the experiment, the serum samples were taken from the heart, and serum liver enzymes of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) were determined. After euthanasia, liver and brain samples were taken to determine brain malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and liver histological investigation. Findings: There was a significant increase in serum ALT levels following intraperitoneal injection of ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite at 160 and 320 mmol/ml compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Serum AST levels did not change compared with the control group (P > 0.05). In histological analysis, the group received 320 mmol/ml nanocomposites showed sinusoidal distention and necrosis. There were no significant changes in brain MDA between the experimental groups. Conclusion: The administration of ZnO-chitosan nanocomposite can increase liver enzyme levels. These compounds could be toxic, and their use should be limited in industry and medicine.