Accumulation of zinc in rat testes after repeated enteral administration of zinc hydroxide nanoform

The aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics of zinc accumulation in the testicular tissues of rats after enteral administration of zinc hydroxide nanoform as compared with dissolved zinc sulfate. Materials and Methods. 108 male Wistar rats served as experimental subject. During 168 hours zinc hydroxide nanoform (2-3 nm) in the dose of 100 mg/kg (on zinc basis) was enterally administered according to the schedule 0 - 24 - 48 - 72 - 120 - 168 h. Dissolved zinc sulfate was administered as a comparator agent in the same dose. In 4 hours after the administration, Zn2+ concentrations in the testes and blood fractions (erythrocyte mass and plasma) were measured. We used flame atomic absorption spectrometry and preliminary wet ashing with perchloric acid. Results. Zinc hydroxide nanoform was characterized by a more intensive dynamics of zinc accumulation (4-72 hour). Thus, zinc accumulation was 6.55±0.77 pg/g in comparison with 4.02±0.31 pg/g for the comparator agent. By the end of the experiment, there were no statistically significant differences in Zn2+ concentrations between animals treated with nanoform and soluble compound. It was determined that in the group receiving zinc hydroxide nanoparticles, Zn2+ concentration in erythrocyte mass and testicular tissues did not have statistically significant differences. Conclusions. Analysis of Zn2+ levels in testicular tissues makes it possible to characterize zinc hydroxide nanoform as a promising compound with a better ability to accumulate in the testes in comparison with zinc sulfate. This characteristic can be used for further development of the treated agent after studying its toxic properties.