Anthelmintic and hepatoprotective activities of the biocompatible Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against Parascaris equorum infection in rats

Abstract Background: Nanoparticles have many properties, depending on their size, shape, and morphology, allowing them to interact with microorganisms, plants, and animals. Objectives: Investigatation of the therapeutic effects biocompatible zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on P. equorum infection in rats. Methods: Thirty-six rats were divided into two divisions are: the first division is noninfected groups were allocated into three groups. Group 1: Control, Group 2: ZnO NPs (30mg/kg) and group 3: ZnO NPs (60mg/kg). The second division is infected groups were allocated into three groups. Group 1: vehicle, group 2: ZnO NPs (30mg/kg) and group 3: ZnO NPs (60mg/kg). Findings: Biocompatible ZnO NPs caused a significant decrease in liver functions, LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides, MDA and NO. While it caused a significant increase in HB, HDL, BCHE, GSH, CAT, and GST in infected treated rats. The histological inflammation and fibroplasia scores showed a significant enhancement during the treatment with ZnO NPs (30, 60mg/kg) compared to the infected untreated animals that scored the highest pathological destruction score. Immunohistochemical markers of NF-κB showed a significant decrease during the treatment with ZnO NPs (30, 60mg/kg) compared to the infected untreated animals. Main conclusions: Biocompatible Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle is a promising treatment modality against parasitic infection through its powerful anthelmintic, antioxidant, healing promotion, and anti-inflammation effects.