Vol. 9, Issue 5, Part J (2024)

Author(s): Surjith KP, Ranjith D, Rajani CV, Patki HS, Maya S, Indu VR, Aswathi PB and Pradeep M

Abstract: This experiment investigated the effects of ethion, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and their combination on avian embryo hematological parameters. Exposure to ethion, an organophosphate insecticide, led to a dose-dependent decrease in hemoglobin, RBC count, PCV, MCV, MCH, and MCHC due to oxidative stress and disruption of erythropoiesis, resulting in smaller, less hemoglobin-rich red blood cells. Additionally, ethion treatment caused increases in WBC and platelet counts, reflecting an inflammatory response to the induced toxicity. When AgNPs were co-administered with ethion, they initially exhibited a protective effect by improving hemoglobin, RBC count, and PCV, likely due to their antioxidant properties that counteracted ethion-induced damage. However, at high doses, AgNPs themselves became toxic, causing reductions in these hematological parameters and increases in WBC and platelet counts, indicative of an excessive inflammatory response. The combination of high-dose AgNPs with ethion further exacerbated these effects, demonstrating a complex interplay between the substances and their potential for combined toxicity. These findings highlight the dual nature of AgNPs as both protective agents and potential sources of toxicity, underscoring the need for careful dosage management to balance therapeutic benefits with adverse effects. Further research is essential to elucidate the mechanisms of these interactions and optimize the use of AgNPs in mitigating pesticide-induced toxicity.