Evaluating the Toxicity of Commercial Chelated Multi-Micronutrient Nanofertilizer

Abstract

     Despite growing interest in nanofertilisers, safety concerns persist. In this study, the toxicity of a chelated multi-micronutrient nanofertiliser was assessed using male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) as non-target organisms. Thirty-five male rats were divided into five groups (n=7): one control and four experimental groups (C1-C4). Rats in experimental groups were orally administered fifteen doses of nanofertiliser (15, 30, 62, and 126 mg/rat, respectively) at one-day intervals. Significant weight loss was observed in C1-C4 (−10.86±10.95 g, −8.43±14.46 g, −38.71±28.70 g, and −34.71±21.55 g, respectively), compared to the control group (31.29±9.62 g). Liver weights were also reduced (C1: 7.35±1.39 g, C2: 6.55±0.88 g, C3: 7.35±1.10 g, and C4: 9.07±1.60 g) versus controls (11.26±2.08 g). Although levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) fluctuated, most alterations were statistically insignificant. Significant gene upregulation was observed: Casp3 was upregulated by 2.78±0.98 (C2), 2.26±0.96 (C3), and 2.29±0.26 (C4), and Sod1 by 2.79±1.36 (C2) and 2.43±0.92 (C4). These findings indicate harmful biological effects of the tested nanofertiliser doses, highlighting the need for long-term chronic impact studies.