Background and purpose: The widespread use of silver nanoparticles in therapeutic and diagnostic methods has created some concerns. Different sizes and shapes of nanoparticles have different effects. In this investigation, toxic effects of spherical nanosilver with average diameter of 4 nm were investigated on MCH and HGB in male Wistar rats. Materials and methods: In this study, concentrations of silver nanoparticles at 50,100, 200 and 400ppm were applied through skin contact for the treated groups. Then blood sampling of the inner corner of eye was performed in rats using capillary tube. The mean of MCH and HGB in the treatment and control groups were recorded on day 12 after treatment and ANOVA test was used to analyze the data. Results: Blood damage caused by skin contact with silver nanoparticles in rats resulted in stimulated red blood cells in all groups. Significant differences were found for dose concentration in the MCH 200ppm on day 12 after the treatment (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in HGB among the studied groups. Conclusion: In 50ppm concentration of nanosilver, possible mechanisms of the change MCH are releasing free radicals, oxidative stress and apoptosis in red blood cells. Further studies are needed with different sizes and shapes of silver nanoparticles.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, nanoparticles of silver, red blood cells, skin, rats

Full-Text [PDF 395 kb]   (3498 Downloads)