Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized From <scp> <i>Aloe vera</i> </scp> Extract Have Lower Toxicity Than Chemically Synthesized Forms on Hepatic, Renal, Oxidative/Antioxidative Profiles, and Histopathological Damage in Male Mice

Nanoparticles (NPs) are widely studied due to their unique properties and diverse applications. Among them, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are commonly used in paints, plastics, ceramics, and magnetic products. However, concerns over their potential toxicity have led to increased interest in safer, environmentally friendly synthesis methods. This study evaluates the toxicological effects of green-synthesized AgNPs using Aloe vera extract compared to chemically synthesized AgNPs on vital organs (liver, kidney, spleen, and testis) in male mice. Twenty-eight healthy adult male mice were randomly divided into four equal groups. Group I (control) received 0.9% NaCl; Group II received Aloe vera extract (5 mg/kg); Group III received chemically synthesized AgNPs; and Group IV received green-synthesized AgNPs with Aloe vera. Blood samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters, including glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT), glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT), urea, and creatinine. Tissue samples were examined for oxidative stress markers such as total oxidative stress (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and underwent histological and histochemical analysis. Results showed that the AgNPs and AgNPs (Aloe vera) groups exhibited significant increases in TOS, GOT, GPT, urea, and creatinine, with a concurrent reduction in TAC. However, only the chemically synthesized AgNPs group displayed marked histological damage in the liver, kidney, and testis, manifested as necrosis, inflammation, collagen deposition, and cellular degeneration. These changes were absent in the green-synthesized AgNPs group. It can be concluded that AgNPs synthesized using Aloe vera exhibit fewer harmful health effects compared to those synthesized chemically, making green synthesis a safer and more reliable method.