Potential Toxicological Consequences of Silver Nanoparticles Coexposed With Polyvinyl Chloride Nanoplastics on Oreochromis niloticus

Abstract

Further investigation into the combined harmful effects of contaminants is needed, particularly regarding limited studies on interactions between nanoplastics and nanoparticles in fish, especially those involving polyvinyl chloride nanoplastics (PVC-NPs) and silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs). Thus, this study investigates the potential cumulative toxicological effects of PVC-NPs and Ag-NPs on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) by assessing multiple biomarkers. Four groups of fish were given 10 mg/L PVC-NPs, 4 mg/L Ag-NPs, 10 mg/L PVC-NPs plus 4 mg/L Ag-NPs, alongside a control group (no exposure) for 96 h. The data showed that Ag content in the gills, liver, and kidney of Nile tilapia increased in the Ag-NPs and combined exposure groups. The remarkable reduction in all hematological parameters and albumin, with elevation in total protein, globulin, liver enzymes, creatinine, and uric acid levels, was observed in all exposure groups. Furthermore, PVC-NPs and Ag-NPs, single or combined, increase lipid peroxidation and alter antioxidant levels (catalase and glutathione reduced) in all tissues. The deleterious histological effects were pronounced in the gills, liver, and kidney in all exposure groups compared with the control. In conclusion, Ag-NPs exhibit greater toxicity than PVC-NPs, with significant toxic effects on fish resulting from interactions that suggest a synergistic effect, as PVC serves as a transporter of Ag to fish and tissues. The findings will enhance understanding of the hazards posed by the combination of PVC-NPs and Ag-NPs to freshwater fish and can improve environmental risk assessment and aquaculture methods.