Study of features of bioaccumulation and pathomorphological changes in tissues of rat organs after a single inhalation exposure to molybdenum (VI) oxide nanoparticles in comparison with a microdisperse analogue

Abstract

Introduction. Nanoparticles of molybdenum (VI) oxide (MoO3 NPs) are used in the production of nanooptics, products of the electrochemical, textile and chemical industries. Currently, the possibility of their application in the fields of oil refining and nanoelectronics is also being considered. Expanding the range of application of MoO3 NPs can lead to air pollution, exposure of the population and the development of negative effects due to the toxic properties of this nanomaterial. In this regard, there is a need to study the toxicity of MoO3 NPs under the inhalation. Materials and methods. The size, surface area, and total pore volume of MoO3 NPs were determined. A study included assessing of bioaccumulation and pathomorphological changes in tissues of rats organs after a single inhalation exposure to MoO3 NPs compared with a microsized chemical analogue. Results. The NPs size was 662.5 nm, which is 5.15 times less than microparticles (MP) (3410 nm). The surface area of the nanomaterial is 3.66 m2/g, which is 1.17 times more than MPs (3.14 m2/g); the total volume of pores located on the surface of NPs was 0.0133 cm3/g, which exceeds this parameter in NPs by 1.18 times (0.0113 cm3/g). An increase in the concentration of molybdenum in the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and brain of rats 14 days after single inhalation exposure to MoO3 NPs and MPs was not found. Pathological changes in the tissues of lungs, brain and liver of exposed rats were established. A more pronounced toxic effect of NPs in comparison with MPs was shown in acute plethora and the development of reactive follicles in the lungs. Limitations. The study was performed only with a single inhalation administration of NPs and MPs of MoO3 in Wistar rats. Conclusion. The tested material is a product of the nanoindustry. It does not possess of bioaccumulation after single inhalation exposure. It causes more pronounced pathomorphological changes in the lung tissues in comparison with the micromaterial. The obtained results should be taken into account when developing preventive measures for workers and the public exposed to MoO3 NPs and improving the methodology for hygienic regulation of new chemicals.