Effects of gold nanoparticles and oligonucleotide coated gold nanoparticles on oxidative stress parameters in rats

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are used in biomedical applications. Due to data gap for safety of them, this research aimed to evaluate both AuNPs and oligonucleotide coated AuNPs (O-AuNPs) at 100, 500, and 2500 µg/kg doses in rats. Oxidative stress parameters, cytokines, 3-Nitrotyrosine, and metallothionein levels were also measured. There were significant changes in catalase, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde in erythrocyte, liver, kidney and brain tissues of rats. Liver metallothionein decreased in the lowest dose AuNPs, lowest and mid-dose O-AuNPs. As a result, AuNPs seem to have some adverse effects on oxidative stress parameters. Further researches are needed to elucidate the safety of AuNPs and O-AuNPs.