A review of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) effects on some fertility indices in small male laboratory mice Mus musculus

Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) have attracted phenomenal attention in the current years and caused increased a growing concern for human health and the environment. This, in turn increases the risk related to their potential toxicity. This study was aimed to investigate silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) effects on some fertility indices of laboratory small male mice Mus musculus.
In this experimental study, a group of 36 Balb/c small male mice (average weights; 28.5±3 g) were randomly divided three groups (one control and two treatment groups). The control group received water only. The treated groups of mice (1 and 2) received 20 and 50 ppm concentrations of Ag-NPs with oral exposure. Following respected methods and formulas, sperm motility, DSP and sperm count were determined. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA using SPSS.
Sperm motility was reduced down to 37.5% and 19.6% in 50 and 20 ppm-Ag-NPs treated groups of mice, respectively when compared to the control. A significant decrease in the DSP was observed in 50 ppm Ag-NPs-treated mice than to 20 ppm treatment and control ones. In addition, epididymis sperm count was reduced down to 14.76% and 36% in 20 and 50 ppm-Ag-NPs treated groups of mice, respectively when compared to the control.
The use of Ag-NPs can lead to reduction of DSP, epididymis sperm storage and motility percentage in male mice.