The Effect of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles on Sperm Numbers and Mobility in Male Mice

Abstract Background: Now a day, Fe2o3 nanoparticles due to high magnetic property and small size are used in MRI imaging. Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the effect of iron oxide nanoparticles on sperm parameters. Materials and Methods: This experiment study was carried out on 75 mature male mice that divided into 4 test groups that received iron oxide nanoparticles at the dose levels of 5, 10, 20, 40 mg/kg intraperitaneally (i.p.) for 2 weeks and a control group. Sperm was collected from epididymis and prepared for analysis. Results: Fe2o3 nanoparticles cause a meaningful reduction in sperm numbers and mobility in all experimental groups. Conclusions: Nanoparticles can cause the inflammation of epididymis and increasing of free radicals (Reactive oxygen species: ROS) that can decrease the mobility of the sperms.