Mesembryanthemum crystallinum alleviates titanium dioxide nanoparticle-induced toxicity in male rats: an ADME and in vivo study

Abstract Background Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 NPs) are commonly used in industrial and consumer products, including paints, food colorants, paper, sunscreen lotions, and toothpaste. Due to growing concerns about their potential health risks, this study aimed to evaluate the bioactive constituents of the ethanolic extract of Mesembryanthemum crystallinum (MEE) using GC–MS and assess its protective efficacy against TiO 2 NPs-induced oxidative damage. Methods The rats were orally administered treatments for two weeks across six groups: a negative control group, a TiO 2 NPs-only group (300 mg/kg b.w.), two groups receiving MEE alone (50 and 100 mg/kg b.w), and two co-treatment groups receiving TiO₂NPs with MEE at 50 and 100 mg/kg b.w, respectively. Samples of tissues and blood were collected for biochemical and histological analysis. Results GC–MS analysis identified 32 bioactive compounds in the MEE, with major constituents including D-Pinitol, pentakis ether, and different fatty acids. TiO 2 NPs were spherical (10–50 nm) with uniform size distribution. Exposure to TiO 2 NPs resulted in elevated oxidative stress markers, and altered lipid profiles, as well as histopathological damage in liver, kidney, testis, and heart tissues. MEE co-treatment improved, in a dose-dependent manner, these parameters and reduced TiO 2 NPs accumulation in liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, in silico pharmacokinetic and toxicity predictions revealed favorable LD50 values (1500–2280 mg/kg) and excellent bioavailability for key compounds. Conclusion M. crystallinum extract demonstrates a strong antioxidant and chelating properties, making it a promising nutraceutical candidate for mitigating TiO 2 NPs-induced toxicity and enhancing clearance of accumulated nanoparticles from vital organs. Graphical abstract